The Praying Places

 “Be still, and know that I am God!" ~ Proverbs 46:10

While babysitting his six-year-old nephew Bryson in a suburb near NYC, the two enjoyed exploring a small pond near the boy’s home. “I know why you like coming here, Uncle Jim,” the boy said. “Because there’s no nature where you live!”

Central Park was only a few blocks away from Uncle Jim’s apartment, but Bryson was right. When he looked out his bedroom window from the 18^th floor, Jim could see only brick walls and a tiny sliver of grey sky. The boy’s comment provided a perfect opening to better explain his faith.

“You’re very wise Bryson,” Jim replied. “Being in nature - by the seashore, in the mountains, near a lake, or even in your own backyard, can be a wonderful invitation to pray.”

The boy looked puzzled. “I thought that’s what churches are for,” he wondered.

“Well, of course,” said Jim. “Churches are terrific places to pray, but we don’t always have access to them. You can pray just about anywhere - on the school bus or in a car, waiting in line, walking the dog, in the shower… even in bed.”

“But, for me, there’s something calming about the outdoors as if God’s inviting me to relax, observe, and explore all the beauty He created for us. It’s not a movie or a painting or anything else created by human hands, it’s something that He, himself designed.”

“There’s a special feeling I get seeing the immensity of the ocean, the endless number of stars, or the ever-changing cloud patterns. It reminds me of the mysterious beauty of our Creator God. Every fragrance is fresh, like the page of a new book. Each burst of birdsong is unique, a live chorus to wake my mind and shake off whatever sleepiness remains.”

“Even nature’s tiniest bits speak of God's magnificence. It’s the perfect place to pray. God listens to every prayer, wherever and whenever. Sit here and I’ll show you.”

“Take a deep breath, let your body relax,” Jim began. Use all your senses: What do you see? Notice the birds, the colors of the flowers, the size of the tall trees. What else?”

Now close your eyes. Do you hear the birds chirping? Are the trees rustling in the wind?”

“Notice what you smell. Do you detect the scent of plants, of animals, or the simple clean smell of fresh air?”

“What do you feel? Are these pine needles prickly? Do you feel the breeze? Touch what’s around you. Notice its texture.”

“Sit quietly for a while Bryson, soaking in God’s presence. Enjoying yourself among nature glorifies God. Spend some time in silence, listening for what He wants to tell you. Then say this prayer:

Almighty God, Your breath brings life to all creatures. While we enjoy the natural bounties You created for us, help us discover the light of Your presence, hear the voice of Your wisdom, and be inspired by Your creativity. Fill us with the breadth of your Spirit who brings peace, rest, and strength. Amen”