Wednesday, July 20, 2011

High Above

I hope you all enjoy this post by fellow writer Beth Dumey who recently found herself immersed in the dramatic beauty of the northwest.

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As a Midwesterner, I seldom get to stand in the shadows of mountains. After a recent trip to Seattle and Vancouver, I’ve been pondering how I might view God differently if I lived in the midst of these gaping wonders.

In Seattle, on clear days, Mount Rainier casts a powerful presence over the city. White-capped and majestic, it is a guidepost for both travelers and natives.
“Can you see Mount Rainier today?” passersby ask as they crook their necks toward the sky. When they catch a glimpse of its outline in the distance, their faces relax into an appreciating “Ahhh…”

A few hours north, Vancouver is buffeted by mountains and one of the most familiar is Grouse Mountain, rising 4,100 feet above the city. A sky ride carries the curious and dedicated (skiers, that is) up to a clearing near the top. Adrenaline junkies looking for a challenge can choose the Grouse Grind instead, foregoing the gondola and hiking the distance. Either way, the view is as compelling as it is humbling. Self-importance dissolves at the foot of towering pine trees and prominent peaks jutting into heaven. The air is thinner. The bears, in their natural habitat, reign.
Perched on a mountainside, a mere speck along a tangle of untamed wildlife and uninhibited tree growth, it seems much easier to understand the sovereignty of God; His mighty power evident all around. Bigger than the breadth of a mountain, higher than the most skyward summit, He is stronger and more capable than all of the creation He spoke into being.

I travel to the mountains because it comforts me. In their shadows, I become smaller and God becomes much bigger. As I look up, I am embraced by the beauty, the grandeur, the fierceness of His presence. With a deep breath, I exhale.

2 comments:

  1. Beatiful there, isn't it? My oldest daughter lived in WA and is now in Portland. What gorgeous country!

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  2. Beautiful piece, Beth. I can see it, smell it and would love to go there someday.

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