God’s Fingerprints on National Parks
For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God. Hebrews 3:4 (ESV)
Wherever you go, you leave something uniquely you behind: your fingerprints. No one else has the same prints. God has left His fingerprints on every part of His creation handiwork. This week we will look for God’s fingerprints in five of the U.S. national parks.
We begin with one which is easily overlooked. It is located in an isolated part of the Guadalupe Mountains in New Mexico. Many drive by without a glance and have no idea of what they’re missing. Others don’t want to take time from seemingly far more important pursuits. But those who exit the highway and head down the driveway to Carlsbad Caverns discover one of the most incredible, extensive underground cave systems anywhere in the world.
Similarly, God’s Word is a hidden treasure. It’s far off the wide, busy freeway on which the world travels. Jesus says, “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:13-14 ESV). On the surface, it doesn’t look like much. People view the Bible as outdated, with nothing to offer our world today. But there is so much more than meets the eye! The Word reveals what otherwise would be forever hidden. In it, we come to see the one true God who not only made all things but still preserves them. He is the God of love who sent His Son to take our burdens, including our sins, upon Himself and to make peace for us with God.
If you get the opportunity, explore Carlsbad Caverns. You won’t be disappointed. Take time every day to explore the treasures hidden and revealed in Holy Scripture.
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious, Thy great name we praise.
Lutheran Service Book 802:1