Unlocking the Secrets of Wonder
As I stood on the balcony of my hotel room, overlooking the breathtaking scenery of Sri Lanka’s southern coast, I felt an overwhelming sense of awe at the majesty of God’s creation. The beauty of the surrounding landscape drew me closer to the divine, reminding me of the Psalmist’s words: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the works of His hand” (Psalms 19:1).
A World of Distractions
But how often do we let the mundane distract us from the extraordinary? A young boy’s story comes to mind, where he became so fixated on finding coins on the ground that he missed out on the beauty of the world around him. He was blinded by his pursuit of fleeting riches, neglecting the sunsets, majestic trees, and vibrant birds that sang sweet melodies.
A Fresh Perspective
In contrast, Carl Boberg, a Swedish preacher, took a different approach. After a storm broke out during his countryside journey, he noticed the freshness of the grass, the singing of the birds, and the flowing waters of a nearby brook. Inspired by this experience, he penned a poem that would eventually become the beloved hymn, “How Great Thou Art.”
A Hymn of Majesty
This hymn, with its powerful lyrics and soaring melody, has inspired generations of believers. George Beverly Shea, the renowned soloist, described it as having “majesty and power.” When he first sang it at a Billy Graham crusade in 1955, the response was overwhelming, and it soon became one of the most popular hymns in America.
The Creator’s Masterpiece
The lyrics of “How Great Thou Art” remind us of the awe-inspiring works of God’s hands: the stars, the rolling thunder, and the gentle breeze. They invite us to wander through the woods, to hear the birds sing sweetly, and to marvel at the grandeur of creation.
A Call to Worship
So the next time you’re feeling discouraged or uninspired, take a moment to gaze upon God’s amazing creation. Let the beauty of the world around you stir your soul to worship the great Creator. As Colossians 1:16 reminds us, “By Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible… all things were created by Him and for Him.”
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