Hello , 

Has spring "sprung" at your home yet?  I'm sure that question could invoke a variety of answers...and it would depend on where you live.  In our "neck of the woods" we've had a colder, rain-ier spring this week...but everywhere I look, spring is here.

I enjoy watching the effects of God's handiwork in nature.  It seems that the older I get, the more intrigued I am with it all.  From the tiny blade of grass, to the curved perfection of a "Bleeding Heart" plant, God's creative power is evident everywhere. Sometimes we get so busy that we miss it...if we're not careful.  

One of my favorite songs of springtime is an old hymn entitled, "This Is My Father's World."  The lyrics were written by a pastor named Maltbie D. Babcock, and while living in Lockport, NY he enjoyed hiking in an area known as "the escarpment" in that part of the state.  While walking in a high place, the views of the farms, orchards, and Lake Ontario are said to have inspired the words to this old song.  A view of the area above (an autumn picture...sorry, I couldn't locate one in springtime), will give you an idea of what he might have seen on his hikes. Here are two of the stanzas to this beautiful hymn:

This is my Father's world, and to my listening ears

All nature sings, and round me rings the music of the spheres.

This is my Father's world: I rest me in the thought

Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas;

His hand the wonders wrought.

This is my Father's world, the birds their carols raise,

The morning light, the lily white, declare their Maker's praise.

This is my Father's world: He shines in all that's fair;

In the rustling grass I hear Him pass;

He speaks to me everywhere.

Have you recently taken the time to check out the natural wonders of your Heavenly Father's world?  It is one of life's greatest "teachers" about eternal things.  

Have a great day and God bless!

Pastor Mike / The Open Word