Ways to the Way- Look, See, Pray

Do you have a favourite “method” of approaching God?

As groups/churches, we do things together: we typically sing praise and worship, we pray, we study Scripture and listen to our pastors/teachers, and we use rituals/symbolic actions like baptism and Communion. All these are wonderful ways to open ourselves to God, and bring our offering of worship. We learn about God’s ways AND we learn to love God for Himself.

Probably we “do” some of these things in personal devotions too.

Some find God seems closer when they are doing practical things – cooking, or building, serving others by showing compassionate Love. There are indeed many routes by which we approach.

It may well be that some of those “doings” DON’T help you- I have a friend who is not musical and endures the songs! Or the prospect of praying out loud scares you.

Finding out the most helpful approach for ourselves is a life-changer.

This page, “Look, See, Pray” exists because I find observing and enjoying nature in Creation really acts as a highway to heaven! Combined with my love of photography, the sights and sounds of our wonderful planet inspire me with awe of the Creator and Saviour- and I offer my pictures as an offering to the Lord- a child’s attempt to mimic and appreciate what Father has done.

Take a look at the astounding dragonfly in today’s photo. This beauty flew into the garden, and spent a while posing (resting) on the roses and the sun-warmed brick walls.

Quite content to pose, this gorgeous creature allowed me to admire and record moments in its existence. For me, the photo is a PRAYER of thanksgiving to the Creator. And I hope it may inspire you as well.

I have discovered that my spiritual health NEEDS exposure to nature. Fresh air, wonderful light, the wind and waves, the swish of plants in the breeze: the graceful swan, the hilarious-looking camel, a sunset or a dragonfly… These all point me God-wards. Contemplating such beauty brings me face-to-face with the One who spoke Creation into being. Then I am more likely to benefit from the words, music and habits of a “Christian life.”

So then… Do YOU have a favourite “method” of approaching God?
How would you explain it to someone who enquired about your living faith and your trust in Christ?

Be blessed as you give the question some deep thought!

Up More Steps? Look, See, Pray

In the gardens of a National Trust property not far from home is this stairway heading up to a Japanese-style wooden framework atop a small mound.

Depending on how tired the visitor is at this point, you can climb the steps to get a broader view of the lovely garden. I wonder what percentage of visitors make this climb? Certainly, on the day of my visit, the majority passed by the opportunity to climb and see more of the carefully planned layout.

“People only see what they are prepared to see,” observed Ralph Waldo Emerson. That is a very perceptive comment! It helps explain why some people find conspiracy theories addictive; and why the followers of certain types of politician find it impossible to criticise their chosen “guru”.

Another perspective on this: the sarcastic description of people of very fixed ~~opinions~~ prejudices- “Don’t confuse me with facts, my mind is made up.”

We’ve all met (and knocked heads with) such people. It’s very trying!

As a pastor for over 30 years, I’ve come across Christians with a vision shortfall. Their faith and expectations reach so far… but ask them to climb up and look beyond, and their horror is evident! To be honest, there have been moments when I have suffered similar limitations of vision… and I have missed blessings and fruitfulness as a result. We all have “comfort zones” – but Jesus took delight in challenging the crowds (and certain named individuals) to raise their eyes to see a bigger vision. “Peter, do you want to be a fisherman all your life? Leave it all behind, and follow Me!” (See Luke 5 for the whole story.)

An interesting thing about photography: changing your “standing point” and eye-level does wonderful things to your pictures. Yet probably 80% of photos are taken at standing eye-level. Moving to one side, or going to knee-high, or climbing a ladder or hill can turn “nice snaps” into dynamic art.

Lord, what am I truly prepared to see? How does that limit the vision You want me to be part of? How much should I move or climb to see YOUR vision? Please help me grasp the courage to keep climbing- and give me the curiosity to want to climb some more steps!

Politics… and faith. Look, See, Pray.

It’s Polling Day in the USA: and there is justifiable concern about the outcome in a very polarised, deeply divided electorate. Probably half of the electorate will be upset/furious whatever the result. The result will have consequences, at this stage not entirely predictable.

Most of us will have opinions about one or both candidates: and though the best choice seems blindingly obvious to me, there will be sincere voters who won’t agree!

I don’t have a vote, anyway.

My hope and trust is in God, the Eternal Three in One, whose Will shall ultimately be done (however this election and the current world political brouhaha turns out).

As Jesus taught us to pray, “May Your Will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Alongside that prayer, I’ve chosen a photo that displays something of the wonder of this world: bright scarlet autumn rose-hips with a small Shield Bug crawling after food or shelter. Even as winter draws on, life continues with flora and fauna blissfully innocent of human politics. Although vulnerable to change and “chance,” this world- so far- has a good record of surviving human dramas (though we seem to be trying to spoil that record through greed and injustice!).

The Sun will rise in the morning. It will set tomorrow evening. And the American election result will NOT have shaken Heaven’s foundations, nor given God a horrible surprise. All things are ultimately in the Best Hands… the hands that were marred by nails on the Cross. That was a dreadful Day: and it was followed by Resurrection. Life finds a Way.

So, Father God- as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord Jesus every day. Please grant us peace and faith, even in our fears and the uncertainties we face. Keep pouring out Holy Spirit truth and compassion. Have mercy on Your troubled world- which we have diminished and defaced. May Your Will be done on earth as it is in heaven. May Your Kingdom come! Come soon, Lord Jesus, and rule as King of Kings and Master of Presidents and politicians. Amen.

Most Important? Look, See, Pray

Salsify flower and seed “parachute”. Which part of this flower-cycle is most important? The flower or the seeds? Hmm.

This is an interesting but essentially irrelevant question! Without both stages of life, the flower species will die out. Flowers attract pollinators; the pollinators “cause” seeds to form; the seeds in due time provide the new plants for next year. Every year.

Like the famous “chicken and egg” dilemma, there is no definitive answer. (By the way- with so many foods said to “taste like chicken” – how come eggs don’t?)

Christians have from time to time debated vigorously about “interesting” questions. One historical classic : “How many angels can dance on the head of a pin?” What a waste of time! What a diversion of energy from essential Kingdom purposes… But theologians thought it worthy of debate.

What is more important- spiritual gifts or spiritual fruit? Both!

What matters most- correct doctrine or correct practice? In real life, it’s almost impossible to have one without the other. We truly need “Jesus-think” alongside “Jesus-love.”

As James puts it, faith without action is worthless. Paul writes “Be transformed through the renewing of your minds” (Romans 12:1).

Thinking in a holy way (Christ-like) will lead us to act in a holy way (Christ-like) even if that sets us against the accepted norms of society. Just remember that Jesus showed Love- and did so by applying justice AND mercy. He was the most attractive personality, the most stimulating, the most provocative, and lived in full integrity. He overturned tables in the Temple as well as healed the lame: he taught in stories and performed miraculous signs. He spoke the Word of Creation; and smashed the power of the grave.

How about we just follow and obey Jesus the best we can? With all that we are?

Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” (Matt. 22:37, Message)

Reds… Look, See, Pray

Red letter day! First opportunity to start the spring gardening. Spot of rose pruning, tidying away dead growth, collecting all the old fronds from the palms, and trying to work out how so many weeds can ignore the weather that frightens the life out of the posher plants.

A day of surprises too. Pardon the colour clash between the camellia and the ladybird: all is forgiven because of the sterling work the bugs do. Hidden away in hibernation until now, they are popping up all over- I’ve been trying to “spot” them… (Sorry! Couldn’t resist the joke.)

There are so many parallels between gardening and spiritual growth. We all want the pretty flowers and good-to-eat crops. The hard graft is less popular. Digging out deep-rooted weeds/habits; pruning the ordinary in order to develop the extraordinary. Picking up the litter, mowing the grass, fighting the bad bugs-and-slugs… Left unchecked, our neat growth becomes a wilderness – swiftly.

Finding allies and mentors is so important. Having a good notion as to which things will thrive where- and creating special conditions for the ones we treasure but need extra work and care.

Never stop learning: that’s definitely true in both realms.

Finally, knowing the Head Gardener is a “big help” i.e., VITAL. And, of course, remembering that gardens (and lives) are there to be enjoyed as much as possible. All graft and no tea in the shade makes a grouchy human. Stopping to enjoy the wild life- butterflies, birdsong, ladybirds gnashing the aphids… PRICELESS.

There IS a prize. Philippians 1:6 (NLT) says:
“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”

The hard labour is NOT in vain.

Decisions! – Look, See, Pray

All the garden suppliers are sending their catalogues and special offers. It’s making me yearn for the glorious colours of summer! Shall I plant more gladioli? What about the older lavender bushes- time for a change? Is there room for another rose? Or two?

Decisions, decisions. And of course those marvellous offers involve spending money (no gardener ever has trouble doing that!!!) but some of them are offering enough quantities to fill Kew Gardens. If only they could see the restricted space available… where could I put 120 dahlias anyway? With the flowering cherry “designed for small gardens” which is tempting me? Or a dwarf crab apple, perhaps?

One decision is made. I would like a passion flower to climb along the rear fence. The old rambling rose already there only flowers for a couple of weeks- and I’d like more colour for longer.

Once the local water table drops a bit I’ll be “at it” tidying and designing… I’d say “watch this space” but there isn’t any yet.

If only I found it as easy to plan my spiritual growth! Questions like “how have I matured since last year” and “what about reducing that pile of books to read by READING some more” are very niggly. It is of course quite normal to have six or seven books on the go at once… isn’t it? Please say yes…

Jesus talked about us being part of the Vine and being fruitful. The process isn’t straightforward. Pruning gets mentioned… Gulp… And then Jesus says this:

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit- fruit that will last- and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other.”
(John 15 v12-17)

Buzzwords – Look, See, Pray

What’s the buzz?
Three kinds of insect noise that call for different responses:
1. Mosquito in the bedroom… high-pitched drone.
2. The sharp-sided buzz-saw of an angry wasp.
3. The gentle, contented buzzing of a bumble bee in the meadow.

Mosquitoes are so annoying… sleep disappears until either it feeds on you and leaves- or you get out of bed to hunt the perishing wee beastie. Bad news with itching to follow.

Wasps seem sociopathic. They dislike being disturbed or frustrated in their food patrol… and HATE arms or newspapers being waved at them. Bad news with ouchies to follow.

Bumble bees: you really have to provoke one of these or get one trapped in your hair or clothing to make them sting. Much prettier, too. Look at its big black eye and furry coat. Good news and honey for tea… (Actually you need honeybees for the honey but never mind that!)

The noise difference between wasps and bees reminds of the motor bikes of my youthful years. Wasps screech like a two-stroke hairdryer. Bees rumble pleasingly like my old Triumph Bonneville. Reassuringly solid, a heavyweight with plenty of punch when necessary.

When we first hear insects, our reaction is often a fear response “in case” it is a wasp or mozzie. We learn early on to tell the difference, and engage the best response.

Mosquitoes could represent social media– great at invading our personal space and causing irritation.

Wasps? More like the “popular” press. You know the ones: they stir up trouble by writing every story as a CRISIS or PANIC. They select a political grouping preferred by their (wealthy) owners and spew out half-truths and misleading stories. “Facts” and “Truth” are optional.

Bees, it seems to me, are the safe and sensible voices that bring the garden to life. Bees will harvest the sweetness in each flower, pollinate our crops, and remind us of the value of honest work. There are not so many of those bees around. So when we do find one, we should treasure it and learn wisdom.

Here are two safe, sensible buzzwords to think on today…

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”

– James 3:17 (NIV)

“Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

– Proverbs 4:6-7

Sweet! Look, See, Pray

Watching a Comma butterfly feeding this summer was delightful. I grow verbena bonariensis mostly as a butterfly feeder: its long upright form raises the flowers above the surrounding plants, and it proves very attractive to the wildlife. Taking photos is also easier!

Verbena is generous with the nectar it makes, so the butterflies and bees linger over lunch.

Observing the creatures who visit my garden gives a huge amount of satisfaction. Those delicate wings, the efficiency of the feeding proboscis… Dictionary definition of proboscis: “an elongated sucking mouth-part that is typically tubular and flexible.” It’s the insect equivalent of the elephant trunk!

You may have heard meditation described as “chewing over the meaning of Scripture like a lion eating meat.” How about a gentler definition? – “Lingering long enough to absorb all the sweetness of the nectar.”

Psalm 119 v103 says something very similar about taking in the Word and ways of God: “How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey.”

Christmas has seen most of us enjoying a feast of sweet things. They are irresistible, one chocolate leads to another (and another).

This year, I want to deepen my appreciation of God’s Word. Sometimes preachers fall into the trap of mastering the Bible with our minds, and failing to savour it in our heart of hearts. My college principal warned us: “It is easy to look at a Bible passage and see three clear points about how it applies… TO EVERYBODY ELSE.”

How often do I read Scripture for enjoyment? As a means of blessing, as food for my soul, as a vehicle for transporting me to a place of deeper love of God?

To take in the sweetness of pure Love.

Psalm 119 is remarkable for its length and thoroughness in exploring and honouring the “Law of the Lord.” How wonderful that in what could be seen as (just) a lengthy repetitious psalm, this concept of SWEETNESS, of sweetness exceeding the taste of honey, emerges as a reminder that this psalm isn’t just about religious duty. It describes the beauty and joy of the Creator and Redeemer who is delighted when we choose to “linger over lunch” with Him.

Sounds a worthwhile challenge. Join me in seeking sweetest grace?

Overwhelming Awe- Look, See, Pray

*Ribbon Fall, Yosemite Valley, California*

Overwhelming sound- the roar of the big waterfalls in Yosemite Valley is stunning. Seen from across the valley, the sheer volume of water plunging into mid-air is stupendous. Getting closer to the base of the fall is an immersive experience! Sound, sight, soaking spray- you can’t just “see” the waterfall, you are caught up into its majestic reality and power.

Conversation is drowned out. It’s hard to find appropriate words anyway. We use the word “awesome” too easily these days… I once heard someone say their burger was awesome. Really? To be overawed by minced beef and a bun is setting a very low bar.

Awe is defined as “a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder.” (If wolfing a cheeseburger is that inspirational, you need to get out more. Or send me the address of the chef.)

In an age of technological marvels and amazing human accomplishments, we can be blasé about wonder- it’s the quality of innocent childhood that we submerge in sophisticated adult cynicism. A child is excited by the Christmas tree, their new kitten, raindrops and puddles… this big kid is excited by waterfalls, mountains, thunder- and God.

John the Apostle saw amazing visions: he describes one of them in these words: “And I heard a voice from heaven, like the sound of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder, and the voice which I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps.” – Revelation 14:2 (NASB)

The Voice of God Almighty, awesome, terrifying, beautiful- and conveying absolute wonder. It’s a vision of Jesus- no longer “just” the Baby of Bethlehem, but the Risen Lord- the Eternal Word of God- speaking love, justice, majesty, hope and ultimate purpose.

I think I’m going to set myself a challenge- to reserve awe for the One who IS truly awesome. I don’t want my faith and my life to be focused on burgers when God is inviting me to a Banquet.

And if a photo I took in 2004 can inspire me to make 2024 a more God-centred, purpose-filled life of love, hope and worship- then bring on the roar of many waters!

Feeling Sleepy- Look, See, Pray

I’d love to say this comes from the “Penguin Book of Prayers”… simply because this penguin looked just like a child saying their bedtime prayers.

My parents helped me to say my prayers- I’m not sure I was very good at it! Tonight I discovered a Jewish bedtime prayer which could be helpful, especially in seasons of uncertainty or worry.

Praised are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who brings sleep to my eyes, slumber to my eyelids. May it be Your will, Lord my God and God of my ancestors, that I lie down in peace and that I arise in peace. Let my sleep be undisturbed by troubling thoughts, bad dreams, and wicked schemes. May I have a night of tranquil slumber. May I awaken to the light of a new day, that my eyes may behold the splendour of Your light. Praised are You, Lord whose glory gives light to the entire world.

God is a faithful King.
Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is One.
Praised be His glorious sovereignty throughout all time.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your might. And these words which I command you this day you shall take to heart. You shall diligently teach them to your children. You shall recite them at home and away, morning and night. You shall bind them as a sign upon your hand, they shall be a symbol above your eyes, and you shall inscribe them upon the doorposts of your homes and upon your gates.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)

Help us, our Father, to lie down in peace; and awaken us to life again, our King. Spread over us Your shelter of peace, guide us with Your good counsel. Save us because of Your mercy. Shield us from enemies and pestilence, from starvation, sword and sorrow. Remove the evil forces that surround us, shelter us in the shadow of Your wings. You, O God, guard us and deliver us. You are a gracious and merciful King. Guard our coming and our going, grant us life and peace, now and always.

Amen.