Romans 1:20-23 (NRSV)

Ever since the creation of the world his eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things he has made. So they are without excuse; for though they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their senseless minds were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools; and they exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling a mortal human being or birds or four-footed animals or reptiles.

ONE joy of retirement is that most days I take two long walks, one in the morning and another near dusk. By far, my favorite time is the early morning. A few runners are out, but mostly I have my paths and routes all to myself. There is a quiet peace about the morning that I love. It is as if God gets up early and paints serenity for all to comprehend and enjoy.

Lately, I have experienced something different during my morning walk. I finish a brisk, 45-minute walk only to realize that I have seen nothing. I become so wrapped up in my own thoughts and concerns of daily activity that I miss God's wonderful serenity. During those times, I am spiritually blind. I'm like the tourist who rushes through a large museum trying to look at everything but who ends up seeing nothing. This experience has caused me to examine more closely my personal relationship with God. Indeed, I go to church, I pray daily, but I don't always take time to recognize God's presence.

The wonders of God are all around us. Let us take time to experience them.