Grace and Beauty Observed – Devotion 203

It was by accident that I saw it at all. From the corner of my eye, I could see her moving. It isn’t unusual to see animals in the fields first thing in the morning. What was surprising was her grace, her speed, and her beauty. I had to watch carefully to keep up with her. I ordinarily would say that she was running across the field and over the road. But in this case, running does not adequately describe her action. I was running – slow and clumsy as though it may be. She was not running. She was gliding ever so gracefully in a sequence that captured my attention. She isn’t the first deer I have ever watched, not by any means. They are everywhere along my morning route. But there was something special about her. She seemed to leap without effort and she made no sounds at all. If I had not been watching, I would have missed her altogether. It has rained so much and the fields are so full of water, yet she never splashed. She made no sound as she made her way across the road. She floated with elegance. I couldn’t help but think how amazing God’s creation really is – I’m transformed once again.

I am drawn to the scripture describing the feet of the deer. I have a new image. My understanding of this scripture is altered by the beauty of the feet of a particular deer this morning. Her quiet grace awakens my senses to the beauty of the deer. This particular scripture is written in the Psalms and in 2 Samuel. Apparently, this was on someone’s mind. Today, it was on mine. It reminds me as I travel this life, I am given strength, security and grace. There will be challenges, but God has given me what is needed to thrive. I am simply to keep moving and gliding.

God’s beautiful creation speaks to us every day, moment by moment. But we must pay attention. The deer could have passed me by, I’m sure like it has many times before. The opportunity to experience God bring his Word to life is one you don’t want to miss. Open your eyes, walk softly, and hear God speak. It might change your day. It might even change your life.

Focus Scripture:

Psalm 18:31-33

For who is God except the Lord?
    And who is a rock besides our God?—
³²the God who girded me with strength,
    and made my way safe.
³³He made my feet like the feet of a deer,
    and set me secure on the heights.