A couple days ago I took a walk through a forest with a group of friends. We spaced ourselves out so that we would feel as alone as possible. Previously, we had talked a lot about how some of God's glory is reflected to us in Nature, and because of that, you can receive some kind of peace by spending time in Nature. Out there, walking along that prickly trail, was the first time that I really fully understood what that peace was like.
I was surprised by the feeling that I didn't have to hide my faults. I didn't have to wear a mask.
As the air filled with the songs of birds above me and the gentle breeze stirred the long dry grass against my legs, I was filled by a sense of wonder at the acceptance I felt. Yes, I still had faults and flaws that needed to be worked against, but they could be known. I could tell them to the open blue sky and sheltering oaks and be heard by their Maker- heard and helped.
I've read many authors, especially early American Transcendentalists, who speak very passionately about the peace of Nature- so much so that I believe they come close to worshiping it. Yes, they do feel a peace. After all, God gives common blessings to everyone- "He makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matt. 5:45)
These people worship the shadow of the real thing. Nature is wonderful in its acceptance- it is that way all because of God's acceptance. So they may forever talk on about the peace of Nature alone. I will sing of the glory of Him who made it!
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