Deut 34.“This is the land I promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob when I said, ‘I will give it to your descendants.’ I have let you see it with your eyes ……..”
Before Moses died God showed him the promised land. He may not have crossed over into it himself, but he led the people of Israel out of Egypt right to the edge of it. I find it interesting that as well as all the promises and encouragements God gives about inheriting the land, that the last thing he did for Moses, was to give him a view of it. It also suggested Moses still had good eyesight even at the end of his life!
Yesterday I spent the morning cycling with three retired men on our mountain bikes across 27 kilometres of tracks, fields, woods and hills, as well as small narrow country lanes. By far the favourite part for me was the stop to admire the view. That view across the Hambleden valley was quite awesome. Stopping and looking over vast expanses of green countryside gives me a bit of perspective about life.
Traveling to places where I can admire the view, is a favourite occupation of mine. I like living in a house with a view, and if I am on holiday I will always try and fit in visits to some wonderful views.
I have been trying to work out why admiring views is so significant for me. Here are a few suggestions. It brings me closer to my creator. Jesus created this beautiful scenery and although it has been partly spoilt, it still has the stamp of His wonderful creativity and beauty. I often stop and give thanks for His wonderful creation when I see a view. Secondly it helps put my life and the battles I may be facing into perspective. God is much bigger than all my small issues. I know they are important to him because he cares about me, but in the great scheme of his kingdom purposes, they are not as significant as I make them. Thirdly, views help me think of the future. The bible records that God often showed people like Moses or Abraham, views of lands and places, so they could get an idea of what He had in store for them in the future.
If you are able over the next few days, why not travel out and stop a while to admire a view and let the wonder of it fill you with thanks and vision for His future purposes.
