Photo by Patrick Peori

Recently, I was fortunate enough to take a few days of retreat and a few days of vacation. It was a very privileged time of rest, relaxation and renewal. 

While I was away, I had lots of opportunities to enjoy the things in the title of this blog post! For me, they are all ways that I am able to connect with God. But I believe they are ways we can ALL connect with God. 

Sunrises, sunsets, waterways and wind all give insight into the God who created it all and His infinite love for us.

Sunrises 

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it” (John 1:5).

There is something so beautiful about sunrises. A new day and a new dawn. They represent for us the beauty of a new beginning and a fresh start. 

Every single day the sun rises. May we too bask in the light of each fresh sunrise and beauty it gives us to encounter the light of the world and share it with others.  

Sunsets

A setting sun is the end of the day. No matter what day we had, good or bad, it always comes to an end. It provides us an opportunity to reflect on our day and the blessings God has showered down upon us.  

We place our hope in a God who is with us in the beginnings and the endings. His providential care guiding it all. 

Waterways

We see in lakes, rivers and oceans the mighty power of God and His infinite grandeur. It reminds me of the vast love that God has for each of His children. 

In her diary, St. Faustina writes, “I pour out a whole ocean of graces upon those souls who approach the fount of My mercy” (699).

Like waves that wash up on the shore, we too must allow ourselves to be overcome by the love of God and allow the waves of His mercy and love to wash over us every day. 

Wind

While on vacation I had the privilege of sailing with some good friends of mine. It was such a beautiful day on the water. 

When we first hit the water in the morning there was not that much wind so we did not move very fast. However, in the afternoon, the wind picked up, and it became very necessary to get the sails in the right place so as to catch the wind and get speed going in the right direction.

In our lives too, we need the wind. The wind of the Holy Spirit! It is our fuel and fire. Apart from it and without, we can do nothing.

As summer time winds down, let us take the opportunity to find God’s beauty in the things of nature surrounding us and allow ourselves to be overcome by His loving presence sustaining it all. 

Patrick is a beloved son of the Father who desires to use his gifts to build up the Kingdom of God. You can read more of his writing on his blog.