As we consider the story of the Wisemen, we see God speaks through nature. These Gentile astrologers had a question for Jerusalem: Matthew 2: Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.[1] They had observed something unusual in the skies and understood it as a message from God. We know that God is the creator and can choose to communicate to us through His creation.
David Heard God Through Nature
King David was known as a man after God’s heart. He wasn’t perfect, but he tried to follow God’s plan for Him. He also understood how God communicated through nature.
Psalm 19: 1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. 2 Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. 3 They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. 4 Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. [2]
David could see God in nature, and it drove him to the Scriptures. Psalm 19: 8 The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living… 11 They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them. [3]
See God in Nature and Seek Him
Many today can see God in nature, but don’t stop there. Follow the model of the Wisemen. They saw the star and went to Jerusalem, where they heard Jewish scholars tell them the prophecy of the birthplace of Messiah. And they continued to seek and found Jesus. We, too, need to let the wonders of nature drive us to Scripture and continue to seek Jesus. As this Christmas season ends and the new year begins, seek a deeper relationship with our Savior, Jesus.
Hymn of Praise
Maltbie D. Babcock wrote a hymn, This is My Father’s World, describing this process in 1901. Here are a few of the lyrics:
This is my Father’s world, And to my list’ning ears All nature sings, and round me rings the music of the spheres…
This is my Father’s world: He shines in all that’s fair; In the rustling grass I hear Him pass, He speaks to me everywhere…
This is my Father’s world: Oh, let me ne’er forget That though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world, The battle is not done: Jesus who died shall be satisfied, And earth and Heav’n be one.
God speaks through nature. Let His voice drive you to His Word and to a deeper relationship with Him this year.
To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/seeking-jesus
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.