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In 1893, an English professor went by train to Colorado to teach summer school. On her trip, 33-year-old Katharine Bates was inspired by many of the scenic views she saw, including the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago and the wheat fields of Kansas. She was particularly moved by the majestic view of the plains from atop Pike’s Peak. On the top of that mountain, the words of a poem came to her and she quickly wrote them down. Today, we know the poem as the song, “America the Beautiful.” Her description of the “purple mountains’ majesty” still resonates with our feelings of glory and awe as we view God’s creation today.
The psalmist in today’s passage records a similar wonder at God’s creation. Read the psalm through in its entirety, noting how it begins and ends with a praise to God, the Creator: “O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!” (vv. 1, 9). There is a contrast here between God and man. God is distinguished by “glory” (v. 1); worthy of “praise” and powerful (v. 2).
The psalmist wonders: Considering these attributes of God, how can He care for people like him? “What is man that you are mindful of him?” (v. 4). Further he asks, “the son of man that you care for him?” Not only did God create us—He cares for us!
God’s creation was made with love and is given a place of honor and purpose. The text says that the son of man has been “crowned with glory and honor” and has been made “ruler over the works of your hands” (vv. 5, 6). This is a position of both significance and responsibility.
Isn’t it incredible that the God of all creation could care for us in such an intimate, purposeful way? God has given us great gifts. He has given us the gift of His creation to enjoy and to rule. This demonstrates His love for us and the value He has given to us.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Music helps us to express the glory of God. If you can, listen to a few of those songs that describe the wonder of God’s creation and His love for us. “America the Beautiful,” “How Majestic Is Your Name,” or “Lord of All Creation” are just a few suggestions. Of course, the classic hymn “How Great Thou Art” also reflects the awe we feel in God’s presence. Thank Him for who He is and glory in the fact that He created us and loves us!
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