Majestic Mountains

This week I identify with a comment by hiker and blogger Alex Derr who wrote, “I don’t know why mountains lift the spirit so. They just do.”

We are enjoying the spectacular and breath-taking beauty of the fall foliage in the Smoky Mountains. Its enjoyment is amplified by sharing it with our grandchildren, Miles and Katherine, whose child-like wonder warms your heart and brings a smile to your face.

The atmosphere here is wonderful. Miles exclaimed yesterday as we hiked to Laurel Falls, “I love this Tennessee mountain air.” But it’s more than the fresh, crisp mountain air. Novelist Joan Bauer opined “Mountains draw you to a deeper place in yourself.” I think she’s right.

“Wherever we go in the mountains, we find more than we seek,” wrote John Muir, the author and naturalist who’s known as the “Father of the National Parks.” He also is credited with famously saying, “The mountains are calling. I must go.”

Of course, the emotions you feel and the thoughts you think are probably predicated on your beliefs and values. One writer advised, “Do not view mountains from the scale of human thought.”

For the Bible believer, we see the wondrous beauty of God’s creation. In fact, the inspired writers often spoke of God’s majesty in connection with His creation of the mountains.

“You formed the mountains with your power and armed yourself with mighty strength” (Ps. 65:6).

“The mountains of Bashan are majestic, with many peaks stretching high into the sky” (Ps. 68:15).

“The majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the Lord, The majesty of our God” (Isa 35:2).

Power. Strength. Glory. Majesty. Might. And beauty. These words not only describe the creation but the Creator. And His creation cries out that the mountains, valleys, rivers, and streams are not an accident. The mountains rise toward the heavens and point to Him who made them and they call forth in unison, “There is a God! There is a God!”

Indeed, as author Anita Diament wrote, “Mountains are where heaven meets earth.”

It is often observed by Creationists presenting evidence for God’s existence that He gave us two books. The book of revelation called the Bible. And the book of nature which is evidenced in the sun, the moon, and the stars. God’s handiwork can also be witnessed in the kaleidoscope of fall-foliage colors. And the majesty of the mountains.

While there is much to do in this area, with its multitude of man-made attractions, when you come don’t miss the glory and grandeur of God’s creation. Take some time get away from the crowds. Sit on the back porch. Breathe in the crisp mountain air. Take a walk in the woods. Hike to a waterfall. Watch the sunrise over the mountains, or see the sunset. Feel the gentle breeze. Listen to nature.

Then think about Him who revealed His eternal power and Godhood in the natural world. But also be assured we can come to know Him in His divine revelation, the Bible.

Indeed, “the mountains are calling.” Calling us to our Creator. Calling us to closer communion with our Lord. Calling us to acknowledge, honor and worship His majesty.

We’re enjoying the majestic mountains because there is a majestic God!

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman