“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” -Jeremiah 29:13
We live in a culture that consistently encourages us to spend more time indoors. Our view of God’s creation shrinks within our air-conditioned walls. While inside, we also increasingly focus on digital devices. The average size TV purchased in the United States is 65”. While that screen is on, we often have our laptops, iPads, or phones in our hands. Our culture is distracted.
This constant level of distraction is showing up in all areas of our lives, including school. Talk to any teacher, and they will tell you about the challenges of classroom discipline. I recently read about a school that is trying something new to address this issue. Morse High School in Maine is offering a new option. When students have behavior issues that result in detention, they can now take the option of a guided hike.
The students overwhelmingly choose to go outside and hike with the school counselor, Leslie Trundy. As they move through the forest, the students find an opportunity to find focus and calm in a way that is not often afforded to them. It is not a perfect solution for all behavioral problems, but it does help students redirect their thoughts and gain a broader perspective on the world.
The constant level of distraction in our culture is a challenge for our faith as well. I know it is summer. It is hot and humid in Oklahoma as I write this devotional. Still, I encourage you to get outside, perhaps early in the morning or later in the evening. Look at the beauty of the world our God has created. Lift your eyes up and see how big the sky is. It is a reminder of the greatness of the Creator. Look at the colors around you and be reminded of the deep love and mercy of the One who keeps our world in order. Going outside, leaving your distractions behind, allows us to be reminded that God is with us. We are not alone. Let us look around to see God in our midst and listen for His voice in our lives.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:1-3)
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
