It is President’s Day. This day is a Federal Holiday. It began as a celebration of George Washington’s birthday. Shortly after the Civil War, President Rutherford B. Hayes signed legislation making President Washington’s birthday a federal holiday. The country celebrated this holiday on February 22. In 1968, Congress and President Lyndon B. Johnson passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. With the permanent move to Monday, Washington’s holiday slowly became a day where we celebrate all those who have served in the highest office in the land.
The history of those who have served as President is varied and remarkable. They have helped to shape our country and the world. One of the Presidents who I find most thought-provoking is Teddy Roosevelt. Teddy Roosevelt was the 26th President of the United States. One of his great passions was conservation. President Roosevelt knew that, as our nation grew, we would need to be intentional about protecting the land and animals that fill our vast country.
Theodore Roosevelt established approximately 230 million acres of public lands during his presidency between 1901 and 1909, including big game preserves. One of these game preserves is here in Oklahoma. Just outside my hometown of Lawton is the Wichita Wildlife Refuge. It is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit. You can see free-roaming herds of bison, longhorn, elk, and more. The Refuge is filled with small lakes and streams. For me, it is a place of rest and peace, all while enjoying the beauty of nature. President Roosevelt knew we needed to guard our natural resources. He led the way in creating these beautiful national parks.
Today, I am thankful for places to get away, rest, and remove myself from distractions. It is a necessary part of my practice of faith. When I venture onto the Wildlife Reservation, stand in the sun, and view God’s great creation, I am reminded of God’s presence in this world and my life. I also find that I can clear my mind and focus on God’s Word (there is no WIFI or cell service in the Wildlife Refuge.) This beautiful location provides valuable time with God.
As a people of faith, we must be intentional about spending time with God. We don’t have to travel to a national park, but it is nice. We can spend time with God in our house, our backyard, our car, our desk at work, and so many other locations. First, we set our distractions aside, turn off our devices, and find a few moments alone. Then, we focus on God and God’s Word. This time is valuable. It is food for our hungry souls and water that quenches our thirst for God.
You, God, are my God,
earnestly I seek you;
I thirst for you,
my whole being longs for you,
in a dry and parched land
where there is no water.
I have seen you in the sanctuary
and beheld your power and your glory.
Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.
I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands.
I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods;
with singing lips my mouth will praise you. (Psalm 63:1-5)
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
