“The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself.” ~ Henry Miller
When Camp Lawrence was brought into the control of the diocese, Bishop Grutka gave it the motto that is still used today: Close to Nature, Close to God. He was struck by the beauty of the camp and was convinced that the children who came to it would leave with a deeper appreciation of God. He believed that being exposed to the grandeur of nature also exposed us to the grandeur of God. I agree with him wholeheartedly. Apparently, so does Miller.
I really love today’s quote. It is so true. I’ve been there before. Have any of you ever really studied grass? I have. It is awesome. The different shapes, textures, and colors of grass are mind-boggling. The way grass grows and forms seeds is amazing. The way that it moves in breezes, hunkers down in droughts, and comes back to all its glory after the first rain or at the end of winter are all phenomenal. One could write a thesis, if not a book, about grass. Actually, books have already been written.
It is true that paying close attention to anything helps us understand the nature and beauty of that object. Everything is unique and wonderful. Everything has the ability to inspire. Everything reflects the larger grandeur of the world around it. Look at everything closely today — very closely — and see what Miller means. You might be surprised.
Just as nature reflects the glory of God, so do God’s people. There are many times that we do not look at people. As a matter of fact, we often try to ignore people. “Out of sight, out of mind” is a phrase that we tend to embrace. But when we look at others, truly look at others, we will be filled with emotion and appreciation.
There is pain out there that we often ignore. There is joy out there that we often miss. There is hope out there unseen and unembraced. It doesn’t have to be that way. All we have to do is open our eyes and pay attention.
FAITH ACTION: Give as much attention as possible to all that comes your way today in order to better appreciate all that God has made and done.