More Than Picnics

Summer is about alot more than picnics...although lately, I'd say that is the most common weekly happening for us. Since our church is doing another "Summer Picnic Series" (which means we have picnics every Sunday after our morning worship meeting) I've thought alot about why pinicking was and is such a popular thing. I don't particularly like hot sun and bugs to distract me while I'm eating, but I'm finding joy this summer in going to these and other picnics we've been invited to. Today I waded up the creek on our church property with Kara and Kendall and the Wenger clan. Now this is normally Keith's thing...the outdoor side to life, but I truly enjoyed being in nature with my little ones...feeling the cold water on my legs and feet...seeing all the uniquely colored dragonflies and butterflies that seemed to escort us as we went. What is happening to me as I age is that I am increasingly aware of God's grandeur in creation, and I am beginning to want to be outside more and more. This was also true during my week in Butler. I just wanted to sit on my parents big back porch and watch the kids play, taking in the sounds and sights of nature.

So, I think what picnics do for us is they bring us to nature...where we meet God as He first met with mankind...in His beautiful world. And we meet with God's people...so we're able to talk about God together in His world. And we're able to eat! ...The food God has given us out of His world He created. And it all sings of God's goodness to us. His provision, His creator-power, and His fellowship with us both directly and through others. So, "I once was blind, but now I see" when it comes to being out in nature. God is good.

Another great moment today was seeing 7 of our young people be baptized. Seven lives that God has changed forever. Some day my 3 little girls will be among the group to be baptized, and I am praying for them each step of the way. Happy Picnicking Everyone. Don't forget to Thank God for His Goodness!