God’s Fingerprints on National Parks
The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing. Isaiah 35:1-2 (ESV)
They are called the giants of the desert. Saguaro cacti can stretch up to 50 feet in height, weigh six tons, and live for 200 years. Saguaro National Park outside of Tucson, AZ is noted for entire forests of saguaro everywhere you look. While striking in size, saguaro are also impressive for thriving in an extremely hot and hostile environment. God created them with spines, a thick outer skin, and folds which store water. The true beauty of the desert is on full display with the spring wildflower bloom. Land which is normally brown and barren bursts with vivid oranges and reds.
We may not live in a physical desert, but we certainly are in a spiritual one. The entire creation suffers under the curse of sin. We came into the world dead in sin. We see its effects in us and everything around us. David confessed his guilt: “For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer” (Psalm 32:4 ESV).
By God’s grace we can still survive and thrive in this time of grace. Isaiah prophesied, “The desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus.” Like wildflowers after a life-giving rain, we rejoice in Jesus who has rescued us from death and gives us eternal life. By the Spirit’s indwelling our lives blossom in praise. Like flowers that can’t help but be noticed, let your faith be seen by those around you. Like thirsty desert plants that soak up every drop of rain, turn to the Word often for the water of life.
Fruitful trees, the Spirit’s sowing,
May we ripen and increase,
Fruit to life eternal growing,
Rich in love and joy and peace
Lutheran Service Book 691:1