I remember the first time I visited Colorado and drove through Rocky Mountain National Park. It was a good thing someone else was driving because I couldn’t take my eyes off the surrounding beauty. The snow capped peaks that towered overhead; the clusters of firs, spruce and pine trees rising high in the air from the steeply angled ground; the rocky cliffs rolling down to the edge of the road, ornamented by an occasional mountain goat or two. It was stunning to be sure – awesome in a way that really lived up to the word because it actually left me in awe.

Throughout my years, I’ve seen other awe inspiring scenes as I’m sure you have as well. Reflecting on nature sometimes has me think about the God who created it. And mountains, of course, are only one facet of God’s glory. What about the delicate beauty of an orchid or sparrow? Or the complex ecosystems of a forest or wood? Or the vast expanse of the ocean or interstellar space.

It’s all quite remarkable and wonderful. And if these wonders of God’s creation leave us in awe, what must it be like to stand in the presence of the God who has the imagination, skill and might to bring them into being?

I’d invite you to ponder that question as we approach the fifth week of Epiphany – because in our readings and sermon this Sunday we'll explore the life changing impact God's presence had on two people in Scripture.

Blessings,

Fr. Darin+

Priest-in-charge