Not To The Swift

Ecclesiastes 9:11 – The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong. (NIV)

Psalm 104:24 – How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. (NIV)

This summer, I have had the pleasure of caring for two box turtles; I've given them the names "Peek" and "Boo". For them, my backyard is a turtle's paradise. They enjoy walking around the gardens, hiding behind plants, and burrowing under the leaves. I watched as the female searched for the best spot, then dug with her hind legs for hours to bury her eggs. Now, I eagerly anticipate the birth of baby turtles in the fall; however, during the winter, these tortoises, including the newborns, will go underground to hibernate so that they can survive the cold temperatures. Their existence is just one example of the wisdom and glory of God demonstrated in creation.

Contrary to the age of speed that we live in today, perhaps the most interesting thing that I've learned from the turtles is their slow but steady pace. Although they are unhurried, I am amazed how they manage to move from one side of the yard to the other in a matter of minutes; as soon as I think that I'll never lose sight of them, the next thing I know, they've disappeared. It reminds me of a childhood fable entitled "The tortoise and the hare", which tells the story of the hare that challenged the tortoise to a race. Relying on his speed, the hare was confident that he would win, so he stopped for a moment and fell asleep. But the tortoise kept on moving — straight to the finish line!

I contemplated the spiritual wisdom that we can glean from the turtle's nature: faster is not always better in regard to our relationship with God. To be precise, turtles do not walk; they plod or move with a heavy tread. Likewise, many situations in life are best dealt with by taking time in prayer, carefully listening to God's voice, and methodically studying His Word. Often, "taking it slowly" is to our benefit; yet, the key is to keep on moving on, striving to walk closer to the Lord.

Several weeks from now, if all goes well, the hatchlings will emerge from the ground; there will be more wonders to observe and new lessons to learn. Truly, God's wisdom can be seen throughout all creation; His masterful design, both in heaven and on earth, continually proclaims His glory.

Have you taken time to contemplate God's wisdom in the world around you? Did you notice one of His creatures in your backyard today?

Prayer: Our Father in heaven, we are honoured to have a place in Your marvellous creation. Bless us anew with glimpses of Your glory and wisdom each day, inspiring us to keep on toward the prize of our high calling in Christ Jesus our Lord. In His holy name, we pray. Amen.