A Walk in the Park
Scripture Reading — Genesis 3:1-10
[They] heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden ... Genesis 3:8
Not far from our home is a city park with a small lake. Children go there to catch pan fish. Ducks and other wildlife make the park their home. A walk encircles the pond, crossing streams and running along a small wooded area. Sometimes in the summer my wife and I saunter there in the cool of the evening. We go not just for the park's beauty but for each other's company. It's a time for us to talk about our day and catch a glimpse of God's imprint on creation. You and I are created to enjoy similar rambles with God. Of all God's creatures, we alone have hearts that can open to God's heart. Of all God's creation, we alone can share God's joys and intentions for this world. Our brokenness is displayed in our reluctance to keep God as our walking partner. God knows too much about us. God's gaze is too penetrating. We feel naked when God is near. But God has an answer to our shame. He has garments that cover our nakedness. Ultimately our shame is covered as we are "clothed ... with Christ" (Galatians 3:27). When we're covered with the sinlessness of Christ and forgiven for his sake, we are prepared again to have God as our walking partner on life's journey.
Father, forgive us when we cower in the bushes, afraid to be seen by you. Help us to come out of the shadows and put on your garments of grace through Christ. Amen.
About the author — Bob Heerspink
Dr. Robert Heerspink was director of Back to God Ministries International from 2006 until 2011, when he passed away. He had previously pastored several Christian Reformed churches. Bob loved to write and was a frequent contributor to the Today devotional.
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