I will always remember my first trip through the Smoky Mountains. The ancient mountains were in rare form that day. They drew me in and wouldn’t let me go.
Everywhere I looked, I found ridge upon ridge of forest. There were trees of every variety. They were too numerous to count. I could behold marvelous wonders in every direction. With spectacular color, they turned each hill into a brilliant masterpiece.
This November day, the Smoky Mountains were alive. Dogwood, maple, sassafras and birch trees welcomed everyone with their red, orange, and yellow leaves. It was more than beautiful. The trees spilled across the landscape and created a canvas that only God could paint.
I marveled at God’s handiwork. A kaleidoscope of fall colors, worthy to display all year round.
I kept turning around to see it all. I didn’t want to miss an inch of this perfect landscape. I took pictures to remember the sight. I didn’t want to go. I didn’t want to leave. How could anyone leave such a beautiful place?
Creation was providing a reminder to look and see what God has done. This world is no cosmic accident. This is not something that mankind can replicate. There is no way to manufacture something so exquisite. There is no scientific way to make all this happen in such grand fashion.
Nature was providing a majestic moment. A testament to the greatness, splendor, and majesty of God.
The Old Testament prophet Nehemiah acknowledged that God alone is the creator of the heavens and the earth. He says, “You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all the starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.”—Nehemiah 9:6 NIV
Take time to bask in the beauty of autumn. Watch the display. Enjoy the splashes of color that transform the slopes and hills. Stop and revel in the gorgeous demonstration. As the fall foliage presents another reminder of heaven, offer a prayer of thanksgiving to the One, who made it possible. Such beautiful handiwork will draw you close and never let you go.
