Sabbath Moments in Nature

Copyright 2016 Melanie Jean Juneau. All rights reserved.

Two weeks ago we had another snowstorm up here in Canada but the last few days have been almost 20C -- about 68F, I think. I have been able to start cleaning up all the fallen branches and pull the dead leaves from my perennials. For me, gardening helps me relax as I allow the Spirit of God to heal and soothe my inner spirit. It is the perfect way to let go of distractions to prepare to receive even more of God's Presence.

Colossians 1:16-17

For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

Have you noticed how people crave the outdoors? It doesn’t matter what the excuse, it can be anything from a simply walk, vigorous sports or lazy sun bathing, but people need to get out of buildings and connect with nature, even if they think they are not religious or even spiritual. There is deep yearning in all of us to connect with God and the easiest place is outdoors, especially in the silence.

People never meant to live surrounded by concrete. In nature, there is a vital rejuvenating energy which restores and heals our emotions and our inner spirits. We connect easiest with the Spirit of God in nature because He is most accessible and visible there. Even if we can’t express this concept, some unconscious part of us pushes us out the door. Probably this explains why children love to play outside  as well primitive man's spirituality.

Catechism of the Catholic Church 

II. THE STAGES OF REVELATION In the beginning God makes himself known

54 "God, who creates and conserves all things by his Word, provides men with constant evidence of himself in created realities. And furthermore, wishing to open up the way to heavenly salvation - he manifested himself to our first parents from the very beginning."⁶ He invited them to intimate communion with himself and clothed them with resplendent grace and justice.

I can’t wait to get outside and into my gardens every day. We are fortunate to live on seven acres, with a creek, meandering gardens, a field of clover and lots of trees, deciduous and pine. I sense God's Spirit in nature.  His Presence softens my heart for communion with the Paraclete, my inner Companion.