Divine Design

What do bald eagles, black oystercatchers, harbor seals and me [a very amateur photographer] have in common?  One might guess we were all at the same place in Canada — at the same time.  That would be true, but we have more than that in common.  Most importantly, we each have the same creator God.  Likewise, each of us has a vital place in God’s creation, as well as revealing the character of God by our divine design.

For by Him[Jesus] all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, … all things have been created through Him and for Him.  Colossians 3

Take the bald eagle for instance, often seen as a symbol of strength, vision, and majesty.  Through this raptor [weighing no more than 10 pounds], I can see on display the strength and majesty of our invisible God.  As the eagle soars to great heights I am reminded, God is above everything.  Also, from these great heights, God's omnipotence clearly sees and knows all things — good and evil.  And when necessary through strength and power, God will intervene and overcome.

With the eagle, as well as with God, timing is everything.  I wish God would intervene more frequently, so He could prevent me from encountering hardships as a result of the failures in my life.  I want instant success as a photographer and writer.  That being said, I know true talent isn’t born in an instant.  Ask any eagle, they will tell you it takes discipline and lots of practice.  I will never be an eagle, but I can learn to have that same perseverance that will take me to the new heights God has planned for me in His creation.

For we are God’s masterpiece.  He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2

In my longing to fulfill God’s purpose for me, I am beginning to realize it will take a lifetime of living, learning and loving God.  The beauty and complexity in nature has become the backdrop for my classroom of discovery.  Seeing this black oystercatcher for the first time, I thought it was just another small black bird.  But upon viewing this little bird purposefully through my lens, I experienced a sense of wonder that always comes from the attention to detail in the creatures placed on display.  These striking birds, with their bright orange beaks, dark plumage, pink legs, funny feet and intense colorful gaze, stand as a vivid testament to the creativity of God.

As you can see, their habitat is along the rocky shorelines of this rugged coast.  God has instilled in the oystercatcher the ability to adapt and thrive in a challenging environment.  It’s colorful bill comes with a strength that allows it to pry open shell fish all while navigating the ever changing harsh tides.

After just one day of entering this world, a baby oystercatcher is already out of the nest, surveying its surroundings with ease.  This  little one is now seeking to develop new foraging skills.  The oystercatcher’s beautiful plumage and survival techniques attest to God's careful design for even the smallest and seemingly insignificant creatures.

Look at the birds.  They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them.  And aren’t you far more valuable to Him than they are?  Matthew 6

Seeing God’s tender care placed in nature for all things big and small helps me as I try to grasp the even greater value God places on me.  In another example, the harbor seals while not created with wings, are able to fly through water with ease and grace.  This creature with soulful eyes reveals yet another layer of God’s brilliance in creativity.  They are created with a sleek design for adaptability on land and water.  Although the harbor seal has the recorded ability to dive 1600 feet, this seal has discovered the secret of playfulness in nature, thus thriving closer to the surface.  Their ability to find fun in the simple things of life, is a reminder of my need to laugh more.

It is always more enjoyable to share the goodness of God with others.  The harbor seals testify to God’s implanted enjoyment that comes from community and living life together.  Actually, I too, find it is true —life experiences are more satisfying when shared with others, including God’s creatures.  What do bald eagles, black oystercatchers, harbor seals and me have in common?  We all serve as living testimonies to the greatness and tender love of our Creator.  In this new year, I hope you will join me as I seek to delight in God and His creation, while also marveling as God delights in you and me.

May the glory of the Lord continue forever!  The Lord takes pleasure in all He has made!  Psalms 104