Childlike Wonder

Childlike Wonder

Jesus prayed this prayer: “O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike.”

Matthew 11:25

In my everyday life, ignoring nature is easy. Trees stretching bare branches into a crisp blue sky rarely catch my notice as I zoom down the highway. Around my suburban house, I notice the chirp of a finch hopping along the frost-tipped ground only after my toddler daughter points it out. My daughter notices the branches, too, and the clouds. She reminds me to really see these things and to rejoice in our Creator God.

This reminds me of Psalm 8:1-2: “O LORD, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens. You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength.”

Children praise God when they spend time in creation. Sometimes I wonder if the “entertainment” I provide my children—movies, computer games, and television programs—is actually training them to ignore nature too. Perhaps that’s why Amish men and women often still have a childlike wonder, awe, and appreciation for God’s creation. Television theme songs and flashing graphics haven’t captured their attention, drawing their eyes away from the world around them.

The good news is that senses once dulled can be revitalized. When you take time to look around and appreciate God’s creation, you begin to see the beauty of ordinary moments. When you listen to the sounds in nature, you find unexpected strains and echoes. Today is the day you can stir your senses once again. And just like children, when you take time to notice the wonders of God’s creation and His majesty revealed all around you, your soul will fill with praise!

Dear heavenly Father, forgive me for spending hours on worthless entertainment. Peace comes when I focus on You and on the world You created. Awaken my senses to Your goodness as I pause and look at the beauty beyond my window.