I decided to spend some time over my lunch today at the Nature Center in Bloomington. The picture here is from my laptop so it isn’t the greatest but it at least gives you a little glimpse of the view I took in. You may not be able to tell but there are two wild turkeys above the log in the picture. There were plenty of squirrels digging for nuts and all kinds of beautiful birds flying around as well. In the room where I was sitting they have a few speakers piping in sound from outside. It is a great way to hear nature from the warmth of a heated room. In moments like this it is easier to put the Psalmists words into action – “Be still and know that I am God.” I have found that during those spans in my life where I am intentional in carving out space from my busy life to simply sit and be with God a peace and reassurance of His love resonates with me more tangibly. Here are a few of my “be still” locations in the Twin Cities:

My back patio on a spring, summer, or fall day following yard work.

A moment or two at night in my driveway when I exit my car. I have always loved staring at the stars.

The Bloomington Nature Center

St. Paul Cathedral

A run around the neighborhood

Sitting on a porch swing at Centennial Lakes

Normandale Lake

Lake Nakomis

Plymouth Millennium Garden