Psalm 46:1-3
1 God is our refuge and strength,
a very present[a] help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble with its tumult.
One of the most beautiful things about the Psalms are some of the natural images that they share with us. Not only do they remind us of the majesty of the natural world, they serve as teachers helping us to see God’s power in the world and role in our lives. This text tell us that despite the changes of the earth, the rumblings of the mountains and roaring waters, with loving reassurance, God reminds us not to fear.
Take a look out your window. Look at the sun as it casts light through your window reminding us that God is the light of the world. Look at the sky above vast and endless reminding us of God’s unconditional love. And, look at the greenness of the grass and plants reminding us that God is constantly renewing us again and again. Nature can be our teacher, our comfort, and our reminder of God’s love that surrounds us from the dirt beneath us to the clouds above us.
Prayer
God of the universe, thank you for giving us this beautiful world. From the first moments of creation, you have surrounded us with a world that is healing, renewing and comforting. Through all the storms of life, you are our refuge and strength and we are grateful for your help in times of trouble. In Jesus name, Amen.