Last week, I offered three ways of meditation on a Psalm in the context of the out-of-doors.
As you look at the photo of the courtyard, I invite you to notice at least two items that can draw attention to a Psalm. Do you see the rock in the foreground? Read Psalm 62 and notice that the word “rock” is used three times. In his desert trials David often found shelter, safety, rest, and time to pray in a cave in the rocks. Throughout the Psalms the word “rock” can be found as many as 24-31 times depending on the translation. “Rock” is a metaphor, an image that is used to speak of God’s steadfast protection, reliability and strength. Is there some area in which you are feeling unsure, unstable, or fearful? How do you need Jesus to be your “Rock” today?
Notice what is under the chair. It’s a grassy area. Read Psalm 23 and particularly notice verse 2, “He makes me lie down in green pastures.” You may not want to lie down on the grass. What about taking off your shoes and socks and letting your feet feel the grass. How does it feel? Fresh? Refreshing? Soothing? Peaceful? Sheep will only lie down when they feel peaceful, safe and free from fear. What might this verse say to you about God’s peaceful, soothing, refreshing presence for today?
As you sit with God, do you hear the song of a bird? Read Psalm 104, especially verse 12, “…the birds…sing among the branches.” As I sat reading in the courtyard this morning, the sound I mostly heard was the traffic on Meacham Road. Yet, even in the midst of the world’s noise, I did hear the chirping of a bird, at two different times. What is interesting is that each time a chirping came, I was reading a particular sentence. I sensed that the bird was God’s messenger chirping to say “pay attention to those words” which I did. They were words to which I did need to pay attention. Perhaps the question is, “How sensitive are we in hearing how God speaks to us even through God’s creation?”
Enjoy this summer’s out-of-doors with the Lord.
