During this down time as we deal with the Coronavirus, I have been watching some of Ken Burns extended series on our National Parks. Watching it I have been struck with a couple thoughts:
- Just about every single person that was influential in setting up our parks or was an early visitor to our parks reflected upon how the parks brought them closer to their Creator. None were atheists. All felt a Divine connection seeing the wonder and beauty of God’s Creation. I wonder how many visitors to our wonderful, majestic parks give thought to God today?
- So many of the early pioneers and founders of our National Park system found healing in the outdoors. Both physically and especially mentally. I contemplated on the healing nature of God’s Creation and how many of our current mental health needs are the product of an indoor, technology driven, virtual reality over the importance of fresh air and wide open spaces.
- Most importantly, the National Park system was created as people found themselves drawn to the wonder of the mountains: Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, Rainier, the Rockies, Yosemite, etc. I could not help but instantly think of the fact that when Jesus was upon the earth and needed to “get away” He went up into the mountains. In fact, many of the important events in the Bible happened in the mountains:
- The giving of the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai.
- Abraham was willing to offer up Isaac on Mount Moriah.
- Noah and his ark came to rest on a mountain.
- Elijah prayed down fire on Mount Carmel.
- Jesus was crucified on Mount Calvary.
- Jesus was transfigured on a Mountain.
- Jesus’ most famous message was the Sermon on the Mount.
- Jesus ascended to Heaven on the Mount of Olives.
- In fact – mountains are mentioned over 500 times in Scripture.
Just some food for thought and the potential for a good Bible Study.
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