NATURE'S LESSONS

Isn’t it amazing how the things of nature teach us about ourselves and others—and especially about God? Whether it’s a chickadee, a puppy, a Coho salmon, a tiny bee, the last rose of summer, or the wind and waves of Lake Superior, we can see God’s wondrous beauty and power. What a blessing!

ETERNAL PERSPECTIVES by Sally Bair

Lessons From a Frog

I ran over a frog with my lawn mower. I nearly cried. The poor thing didn’t have a chance, for I was on a frenzied mission to finish the task so I could cross another important item off my To Do list.

I nearly cried not only for the sake of the unsuspecting creature but for the sake of my hurried, thoughtless act. Nature being what it is, animals will die. In fact, I’m not against the killing of them for food. My son fishes and runs a trapline. My husband, while still alive, hunted big game every year. And the fact is, I enjoy a meal of frog legs now and then.

It’s the deliberate destruction of wildlife and the uncaring or unthinking attitude of people—like myself—that bothers me. As stewards of the earth, we should be more cognizant of the natural world. That’s a hot topic for some people. Extremists are against killing mosquitoes and flies. Conversely, many Christians are against environmentalism because “the world will end soon anyway, and our only job is to save souls,” as a woman once told me.

I disagree. I believe God made animals, plants, and minerals not only for His and our enjoyment, but to show us His attributes. What better way is there to learn about true, unconditional love and devotion than through a puppy’s responses? How better can we learn lessons about God’s patience than by planting a garden seed and watching it grow? Where better can we view a glimpse of God’s heavenly realm than through viewing an uncut gemstone?

“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead …” (Romans 1:20-23)

Part of honoring God and expressing our thanks to Him for all things is being a good steward of His creation. Imagine His pleasure when we respect the life of a simple yet beautiful, beneficial frog. And when we care for nature, we can care for others—which is God’s desire for all of us. Jesus said, “Follow me.” What better example of caring for others can we emulate than His?

Lord, thank You for Your creation which teaches us about Your love and Your continual care of us. Help us to be thoughtful and caring in return—not only for our loved ones and friends, but for our enemies and for Your creation. In Jesus’ name, amen.