Shout
for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
Worship
the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Psalm 100:1-2
Each
spring, we spend some time up on Vancouver Island. The weather might be a bit
more unsettled than later in the season, but the crowds and costs are less, so
it balances out. We find the east coast of the island tranquil and inspiring,
with miles of accessible beaches, mountains, forests, and streams to explore.
On those days when the clouds and fog lift, the view of mainland British
Columbia is awe-inspiring; snow-covered peaks form a breathless backdrop across
the waters of the Strait of Georgia.
Let
the rivers clap their hands,
let the hills sing together for joy...
Psalm 98:8
Each day, no matter the weather, we spend some
time out exploring. Two of our favorite hikes are through lush forests with deep
canyons and fast-rushing streams.
Full to the brim with spring runoff, these
waters gurgle, tumble, and crash their way over steep drop-offs and myriad boulders
before leveling off and smoothly, but swiftly, flowing into the sea.
To be in
their presence is beyond words - to be washed with their spray, enveloped in
their roar, and dwarfed by their force is a truly humbling experience.
Because
this engages all of our senses, we are led to contemplate just what and who we are,
where we came from and where we will return to. We are reminded that there is intelligence
and a power far beyond our comprehension.
... Then all
the trees of the woods will rejoice before the Lord.
Psalm 96:12
And the
trees - as in any full grown or old-growth forest in this part of the world -
are utterly spectacular.
Cedar, fir, hemlock, maple, madrone, and alder - each
is unique and inextricably connected to the climate, land, and other living
things both above and below the soil.
They purify the air we breathe by supplying oxygen and absorbing other
gases we do not use.
The materials that make up their bodies provide us with
wood, medicines, and many other products. We are only beginning to tap the knowledge
of the breadth and wealth of their influence on myriad other species in the
forest.
To see their various colors and textures, smell their distinct odors,
and to hear the sound of the wind rippling through their branches is to witness
a design and variety that is unfathomable and unending.
Clap your hands, all
peoples!
Shout to God with loud songs of joy!
Psalm 47:1
In our busy,
self-serving lives, it is easy to forget our age-old connection to these
things, but they remain essential to us nonetheless.
How wonderful to be
reminded and to offer up our gratitude and praise for these priceless gifts!
You will
go out in joy and be led forth in peace;
the
mountains and hills will burst into song before you,
and all
the trees of the field will clap their hands.
Little Qualicum Falls: