When the sun shines, we feel so much better. The colours are brighter and our spirits are lighter. Being out in nature is such a gift, just to be able to move slowly and to notice our surroundings. It can be so peaceful.
In his gorgeous poem ‘ The Prelude’, the romantic poet William Wordsworth speaks of the wonder and beauty of creation. I haven’t read this through for a long time- 1805 or 1850 edition. However some of the ideas have remained with me, especially his concept of ‘spots of time’. There idea is that we experience moments of intensity or harmony which are transcendent or inspirational. These are remarkable not just in the moment, but also when recollected later.
Wordsworth writes; ‘ there are in our existence spots of time, time, which with distinct preeminence retain, a fructifying virtue, whence depressed By trivial occupations and the round, Of ordinary intercourse, our minds- especially the imaginative power- are nourished and invisibly repaired.’
There is so much more, but this concept that moments of stillness and appreciation in nature, can be a salve which restores our jaded spirits, and replenishes our souls and imagination, carries such insight. We feel it deeply.
In many of the psalms, there are also recorded moments of wonder and worship in nature, when there is a purity of experience which nutures and restore. The words in John’s gospel ‘Through Him all things were made’ chapter 1:3 is behind all this, that we have a sense of being in the presence of our Creator, and it brings a deep peace and serenity. In an often busy and strident world, these moments are indeed to be treasured, not just in the moment but when recollection later in life. May these moments indeed bring serenity and peace.
Creator God, in the sunshine we experience moments of connection and tranquility, memories that sustain us even in rainy and dark days. Thankyou Lord Jesus for the love that runs through all things, and which touches our souls. Slow us down, help us to notice our surroundings, to own that we find our grounding in Your being. Forgive our distracted ways, our impatience and the worry that weighs us down. Set us free from our troubles. Holy Spirit in beautiful moments in nature, may we breath deeply, behold Your majesty and rediscover a serenity that heals and restores our souls, in Jesus name, Amen
An umbrella of healing love 