Learning From Our National Parks

In viewing the Ken Burns series "The National Parks, America's Best Idea" on PBS, I am reminded of the wonderful opportunity I had to spend some years in New Mexico and Arizona. Much of nature's grandeur was at my doorstep in those states. What joy I found in exploring the natural beauty of the southwestern US! Ken Burns has created a meaningful and moving testimony to the pioneers who worked tirelessly to protect the natural treasures on display in National Parks. The decisions made to protect these expanses of nature is one of our noblest ideas.

However, I am left with a bit of an empty feeling from watching the series so far. This documentary honors the persons who saved great works of art while ignoring the artist who created them. There is an old saying that you will never find a sailor who is an atheist. The power and beauty of the sea teaches him that there must be a Creator. What does the awesome beauty and diversity of our national parks teach us?

For me, the beauty on display in our national parks irresistibly leads to one conclusion: There must be an intelligent designer behind this. As a web designer I know that creativity is not an accident. It requires careful thought and skillful, rehearsed execution to create truly beautiful work. The artistry in nature is vastly superior to anything man could achieve. Can we look at panoramas of exquisite beauty in our national parks and not praise the artist behind it all?

Nature sings the praise of its designer! God's boundless love is seen in this marvelous and awe-inspiring gift to mankind! Our National Parks are an eloquent testimony to the existence of a Master Designer.