Nicholas Sparks and Jesus

Living in New England during the fall feels like you're living in a Nicholas Sparks novel. The question you should be asking right now is, "Peter, have you read a Nicholas Sparks novel?" The answer is no, but I have seen many of his books covers and I took the giant leap to assume they're about romance, emotions, heartbreak, and somebody getting kissed on a half stone\half sand beach.

It is beautiful here(insert open invitation to come see us anytime). Now don't get me wrong, I would love to take a drive through Northern Michigan today. But, when this is what you see what you go for a run you can't help but feel blessed. 

Why does Nicholas Sparks choose settings like these for his novels? Because it is emotional, it's overwhelming, and you can't help but get lost in it. If you look out at the seemingly endless ocean, or drive past trees brilliantly designed in color patterns that leave you speechless, or simply walk through the woods and hear silence mixed in with chirping and don't feel something. It's time to assess where you are on the Nicholas Sparks Meter. 

10 = You cry when leaves fall because it's just feels so "fall-like"

1 = You're rushing around missing beauty because it and intimacy have been replaced with busy. 

Jesus created the beauty of nature. Jesus created emotions. Jesus desires for that beauty to stir our souls toward a response of awe and worship.

Before it's too late, take a walk or run and admire the beauty of fall. Allow yourself to get lost in it.