Holy Places in the Wild: Cathedrals for the Eyes to See

_{Photo by Lum3n}

In our increasingly urbanized world, a profound longing for a connection to something greater than ourselves still persists.

The concrete jungle, with its cacophony of noise and relentless pace, often leaves us feeling disconnected and spiritually impoverished. Yet, amidst this clamor, there exists a sanctuary of unparalleled beauty and tranquility: the wild places. These untamed landscapes, from towering mountains to vast oceans, hold within them an inherent spirituality that invites us to deepen our relationship with the Divine.

The woman fled into the wilderness to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days.

– Revelation 12:6

_{Photo by Baher Khairy}

The Spirituality of the Wild

Wild places are more than just breathtaking landscapes. They are sacred spaces where the soul finds solace and renewal. The ancient trees, whispering winds, and crashing waves are not merely physical phenomena but conduits for a deeper spiritual experience. These natural cathedrals invite us to step away from the distractions of modern life and tune into the rhythms of creation.

The wilderness is a place of solitude where we can escape the noise of the world and find stillness within ourselves. In the quietude of nature, our minds become clear, and our hearts open to receive the whispers of God. The vastness of the natural world humbles us, reminding us of our place in the grand scheme of existence. As we contemplate the intricate beauty of a flower or the majesty of a mountain, we are filled with awe and wonder, recognizing the divine hand in creation.

Furthermore, the wild places are places of encounter. It is here that we encounter the raw power and beauty of the natural world, and in doing so, we encounter the Creator. There are supernatural encounters in the jungle, the desert, the forests, the seas, and everything in between.

The storms, the droughts, the floods all remind us of the forces that shape our world and the power of God to sustain life.

Jesus and the Holy Places in the Wild

As the Son of God, Christ was deeply connected to the natural world. He often sought solitude in the wilderness, where he prayed, fasted, and received revelation from God. The Gospels are replete with images of nature: the lilies of the field, the birds of the air, the mustard seed.

These images are not merely poetic devices but invitations to contemplate the kingdom of God as a living, growing reality.

Jesus invites us to see the world through the eyes of faith and to recognize the presence of God in all creation.

The wild places become a sacred space where we can encounter the living Christ. As we hike through the woods, climb mountains, or paddle through the waters, we are following in the footsteps of Jesus, seeking a deeper connection with God.

_{Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh}

Finding Christ in the Holy Places in the Wild

Spending time in the wilderness is a powerful tool for spiritual growth. As we immerse ourselves in the natural world, we begin to develop a deeper sense of gratitude for God’s creation. The beauty and abundance of nature remind us of God’s provision and care. We learn to trust in God’s plan, even when faced with challenges and uncertainties.

The wilderness also teaches us about the importance of community. As we share our experiences with others, we build deeper connections and support one another on our spiritual journeys. We learn to rely on each other, just as we rely on God.

Moreover, the wilderness is a place of healing and restoration. The solitude and beauty of nature can help us to process our emotions and find peace in the midst of life’s storms.

As we spend time in God’s presence within the wild places, we are renewed and refreshed, ready to face the challenges of the world with renewed strength and purpose.

Cathedrals for the Eyes to See

The holy places in the wild places are gifts from God, a sanctuary where we can encounter the Divine and deepen our relationship with Jesus.

By embracing the spirituality of the wilderness and as we journey through the natural world, let us remember that we are not alone but accompanied by the loving presence of God.

May our time in the wild be a source of inspiration, renewal, and transformation.

THE GOD I KNOW by Victoria Udo is a personal account of how Christ speaks to us through the voice of nature and the wild places. THIS BOOK CAN BE BOUGHT HERE.