Nature's Glory

Summer reminds me of the hot days growing up on a farm. I had to make my own entertainment since my closest sister was ten years older and off to a job or in college. I loved wandering through the woods and prairies of our farm, talking to the animals (cows, horses, and the family dog of course).

We had no air conditioning so shade was the blessing for steamy days. We would usually spend the early morning, after the dew was gone, in the garden picking produce. I was assigned a task appropriate for my age. I loved to wander the barnyard and gather all the black raspberries I could find along the fencerows or next to the out buildings. Then it was back to a row of red raspberries in the garden. If I picked peas I think mother knew she would hardly end up with enough for a meal because I loved to eat them raw. 

When my chores were done I was free to wander the farm. On hot summer afternoons the creek called my name. I loved to wade in the crisp clear water, studying the rocks, minnows and an occasional clam shell (yes, in an Iowa creek). I discovered that too much time wading in the shadows would result in leeches attached to my legs, sucking blood. (I know that is gross.)

The hills and valleys of the farm were my roaming grounds. I discovered 'ancient' dumping grounds of previous owners where I found broken tea cups and discarded kitchen wares. I played for hours in the roots of trees along the ravine that became my imaginary playhouse.

One of my favorite finds was a hollow tree near a fence line of a pasture for the horses. The tree had an opening at the bottom that allowed me to stand up in the hollow. My imagination created all kinds of pretend scenarios. Life was never dull when I could pretend.

"The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so you have ordained it. You drench its furrows and level its ridges; you soften it with showers and bless its crops. You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance. The grasslands of the desert overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness. The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing," (Psalm 65:9b-13 NIV).

Oh, Gracious God, Creator of all the beauty of nature, we lift our voices in praise! Your glory surrounds us in nature. We see this as a sign of Your love, provision, and generosity. You give us more than we deserve and we are so grateful! May we in turn be generous to others with the gifts we have received. We thank You, God, for all things and give You the glory You deserve. In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen.