READ: PSALMS 19:1-6; 96:5-6, 11-12

Dominic stepped out of his car into the crisp, cold air. It had been in the teens during the night, and the weather felt as cold as the relationships in his home. Things had gotten tense between his parents, and he needed time to think.

Dominic pulled on his gloves and zipped up his coat as he headed for the muddy hiking trail. Ever since his dad had taken him out here when he was young, Dominic had always processed hard things by hiking.

Drifts of snow mixed with melting runoff made his pace slow. But Dominic wasn’t in a hurry. He embraced the challenge and pushed through the remnants of winter to climb the hill.

Working his way toward the top, Dominic’s muscles relaxed. The familiar climb brought rest to his mind. With every step, he was reminded that Jesus was with him through this. The quiet helped him remember.

As he rounded the second bend, he glanced out and saw the bluish-white valley stretching out to the amber horizon. The majesty of the landscape motivated him to continue. The same God who sustains all this is the one who sustains me, he thought.

Within thirty minutes, Dominic was standing at the top of the hill. Shorter hills encircled this slope, and Dominic gazed out as the sun climbed higher, reflecting off the snowy mounds.

Suddenly, the hills were studded with brightly shining diamonds. Golden light jumped and danced off the crystalline snow. The brilliance was stunning.

Dominic breathed deeply and basked in God’s morning masterpiece. • Eric Downs

• Can you think of a time when being outside helped you relax, and maybe even reminded you of God’s goodness and power? What was that like?

• What is one part of God’s creation you’re thankful for today? Consider taking a moment to tell God what you like about it.

The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Psalm 19:1 (NLT)