Some readers may be wondering: “Why the sacred mundane?” Or, what I even mean by that phrase. For myself, it’s quite simple. I firmly believe that God is still actively engaged in his creation and in our lives, which means, that God isn’t just found in the sanctuary, but in all aspects of creation.

I often find that yellowI feel the most connected to God when I spend time outside, whether that be hiking, gardening, camping or just taking a walk. There is something about the natural world that brings a sense of peace and contentment to my soul. In my mind, there are few better ways to worship God than to spend time in his creation.

We see evidence of God being present in his creation throughout the Bible. In Job, most of God’s dialog is spent demonstrating his power through the natural world. In chapter 38, God asks Job questions such as, “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? … Have you commanded the morning since your days began, and caused the dawn to know its place that it might take hold of the skirts of the earth, and the wicked be shaken out of it?” (v. 4 and 12-13, respectively).

These images and questions firmly establish God as the creator of the earth. Who, other than a divine being, could form such an intricate planet and universe? From the bedrock beneath our feet to the movements of celestial bodies, God’s handiwork is apparent in the most formidable places of our world. Job 38 goes on for 41 verses talking about God’s grandiose powers, but as soon as we hit chapter 39 there is a dramatic shift in perspective.

“Do you know where the mountain goat gives birth? Do you observe the calving of the does? (v. 1). Suddenly, we are dealing with matters of daily life that most of us would deem insignificant. How many of us really care about mountain goats these days? (I could argue that we should care, but I’ll save that for another post). When I read these passages I am reminded, not only of God’s knowledge, but also of his care for creatures such as deer, donkeys, and goats. I’m reminded that God is not only present in these animals’ lives, but in ours as well. God is still at work in his creation, not only us, but all of His creations.

We can see God in even our smallest actions. During Jesus’ ministry, he didn’t spend his time discussing the lofty theology of the Pharisees or Sadducees. Instead, he spent his time preaching in parables to people of all classes. His stories were accessible to even the least educated people; with illustrations of farming, fishing, plants, and relationships. Jesus’ birth and life show that God meets us where we’re at, not just during specified times of worship.

God is present in the most ordinary tasks of our day. Sometimes, it’s hard to see God’s presence, especially when it comes to the mundane aspects of our lives. I for one tend to get frustrated with mundanity. I begin to feel as if my life is stale, and that I’m wasting my abilities. It’s those moments that I try to force myself to take a moment, and evaluate how I can best exemplify the faith that Jesus taught us. To find how God is working in my present, and how he can use me at that moment.