Psalm 24:1, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it fullness, the world and those that dwell therein.”

As I was out running this morning, I saw a rainbow. I am always in awe each time I see one as these wonders of God’s creation. I did what most people do nowadays when seeing something worth sharing; I took out my phone to capture the moment.

Further into the run, I then noticed some deer and wild turkey which caused another stop, reflection, and photos.

Then, with an increasing awareness of this glorious morning, I took notice (and pictures) of the sunrise.

Usually when I run, I’m more concerned with the pace (how fast, or slow) and the finish (just getting it done). But this morning, stopping a few times to behold the beauty of God’s creation was well worth the time. With these pauses and reflections, I was reminded of how we often get so consumed with the pace, the movement, and the accomplishments of life that we miss those moments to reflect and rejoice in God’s glory. Our performance takes priority over God’s purpose. We miss the chance to just hear the birds sing, feel the morning dew (or afternoon humidity), or see the colorful sky. We miss relating well to the people the Lord has put in our lives.  We miss being aware of the many blessings the Lord has given us (health, family, provisions) because we’re more concerned about going places, getting there fast, and getting more done. Is there any wonder that peace of mind seems to be a scarcity in our day?

The running stats—pace and finish time—did not matter as much to me this morning because of what I had the joy of witnessing along the way. What I experienced made the course much more enjoyable than mere minutes per mile or distance. I learned that those metrics mean nothing compared to my standing as a child of God through His grace in Christ (1 John 3:1-2). Being a worshiper of the true God matters more than anything else. Let’s not run life’s journey so fast, far, and furious that we miss the joy of the journey itself. Take time to take in God’s word, prayer, relationships, and His creation. Then, life becomes not all about what we do but what the Lord has done and is doing.

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10)

Blessings.

Kenneth R. Lewis

Pastor, Briarwood Community Church