Finding God in Nature

Lent on the Run — Day 17

Mar 24, 2025

Ever since the creation of the world, God’s eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things God has made. So they are without excuse.
— Romans 1:20

There is something sacred about being outdoors—being present in God’s creation.

As we step into spring (even if the calendar says we’re already there), the world around us comes alive with vibrant colors. Flowers bloom, trees bud, and the air carries the warmth of renewal. Admittedly, the pollen absolutely wrecks my allergies and makes breathing a challenge, but that doesn’t stop me from getting outside. Whether it’s a run, a simple walk, or just sitting in the sun, time in nature feels essential.

Science backs this up—just five minutes outdoors can improve focus, lower stress, and increase energy. When I find myself cooped up inside, staring at a screen for too long, I have to remind myself to step away, to step outside, to reconnect. But beyond the physical and mental benefits, there’s something deeper happening.

Nature invites us to slow down and pay attention. The rustling leaves, the rhythmic crashing of waves, the stillness of a sunrise—creation testifies to the presence of God. Sometimes, we think encountering God requires a sacred space like a church or a specific moment of prayer. But Romans 1:20 reminds us that God’s divine nature is woven into creation itself. Every tree, every mountain, every ocean wave reflects the Creator’s fingerprints.

So today, take a moment. Step outside, breathe deeply, and notice. Notice the intricate details of a flower, the vastness of the sky, the quiet power of the wind. God’s presence isn’t confined to a building or a single moment—it’s everywhere, waiting to be seen, waiting to be felt.