Nature: Our First Way of Knowing God

Feb 13, 2023

NATURE OUR FIRST WAY OF KNOWING GOD

This small group video/study will be led by Rev. Lynn Willhite.  The study was created by Dr. Beth Norcross, Director of the Center of Spirituality in Nature and Adjunct Faculty member of Wesley Theological Seminary.  Below is a description of the study.

Long before there were synagogues, churches, or even the Bible, God made God’s self known through the creation. The Scriptures are packed full of examples of people coming to understand God through the fig tree, the sparrow, violent storms, and of course Living Waters.

Today, we live largely separate and disconnected from the Earth and its ecological processes, and yet this knowing of God in and through God’s creation is still embedded deep within us. We experience it in a sunrise or a sunset, an awe-inspiring mountain range, or a gentle stream.

This 7-week study is meant to awaken this knowing of the Creator through the creation, reconnect us with the sacred landscapes we call home, encourage us to provide space and time for spiritual reflection in nature, and to live in greater harmony with God’s Earth. It includes videos, discussion questions, and a suggested spiritual practice in nature for each week. It also encourages participants to examine and transform their own lifestyles to help bring health and wholeness to God’s beloved creation.

If you are interested in participating in this study during Lent, please call Lynn (903-922-6149). Group will begin the week of Feb. 26 for 7 weeks for 1-1 ½ hours.

First Christian Voices
Gary Williams

Gary Williams

Attending worship service on Sunday morning gets my week started out great and with a purpose. I take great joy in service to the members of my church being a deacon. It is an honor to partake of the Lord's Supper.The format of the worship service is similar to the way it was when I was a boy growing up in this church. My parents were faithful members here and I can touch their memories each Sunday. Sometime certain hymns bring back wonderful memories of my parents, Red & Jeane Williams. I also enjoy and take comfort from fellowship with my church family and friends. We are so fortunate to have Rev. Jordan Byrd. He brings insight and clarity to the scriptures in a unique way. I always gain knowledge from his messages and also practicable ways to apply God's Word into everyday life experiences.