A Prayer to Remember God Is in the Great Outdoors
By Lia Girard
Bible Reading
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. — Matthew 18:20
Listen or Read Below
I’m often curious how many kindred spirits are out there, in perpetual awe of God’s presence in the great outdoors. I thrill at the thought of how many of his children melt into worship while feeling the wind in their hair, dirt under their feet, or any manifestation of life outdoors—rather than looking for God only in a church building. This concept deserves attention because Jesus invites us to consider a very natural idea of church in Matthew 18:20. His definition of church is anywhere that two or more are gathering in his name. Anywhere.
Jesus often taught in natural spaces, unconfined by walls or manmade rules. Internet research reveals that biblical scholars estimate Jesus taught in nearly 150 different outdoor settings. He moved people’s hearts from mountainsides, shorelines, roads, fields, rivers, and the wilderness. Many of Jesus’ declarations and parables also rely on elements of nature, such as wildflowers, birds, mustard seeds, fig trees, vines, and stones.
One I find particularly interesting is Jesus’ mention of stones in Luke 19:40. While Pharisees are demanding that Jesus quiet down and rebuke crowds of disciples who are joyfully praising his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Jesus replies: “... if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out." Jesus knew that the Pharisees’ mandates couldn’t hinder his mission.
I believe our Lord is making the point here that even if people go silent, all of creation bears witness to him. Without any need for the Pharisees’ rules. I feel he’s also demonstrating that he loves and regards his followers—who were gathered in his name—as his living church, created by God. In fact, later, his disciple explains in 1 Peter 2:5 that we, “like living stones are being built into a spiritual house.”
It’s compelling to note that Jesus was born in a stable with animals, which likely resembled a cave rather than a palace. His earthly ministry often involved him stepping away from buildings and synagogues to gather with people in nature. He shared his Sermon on the Mount in the open air. He climbed into a fishing boat on the water to manifest his miraculous provision. He invests in deep discussions while walking along many roads. And he spent many of his final nights in a garden.
And although we can and do gather in buildings, to worship God and serve one another in love, Acts 17:24 confirms a significant truth, saying:
“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.”
It’s also helpful to clarify that the Greek word for “church” —ekklesia— means an assembly or gathering. It doesn’t specify a structure. So, for anyone who loves to worship outdoors, I like to think it’s acceptable to God to meet with him under a tree, along the water, or wherever you experience his glory. Even if it’s just the two of you, gathered in his name.
Let’s Pray
Thank you, God, for always revealing your beauty and power in all of nature. It’s amazing and humbling to know just how to draw me closer to you through sunrises, sunsets, stars, and storms. I’m so grateful that you dwell within us, spurring us to desire gathering as a community in your name. How awesome it is that I’m free to meet with you anywhere, whether it be in a worship building, sanctuary, amphitheater, chapel, or open field.
I see you, God, in the people you’ve created and are still creating all over the world. And I also see you in all the wild things everywhere. Help me remember that I can lean on you and learn from you inside structures that humans have designed for worship or healing, and I can also live out my faith beyond any walls that have been built.
Wherever we gather to praise you and learn to love others, we are your church.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
Go Deeper: You Are Fully Known and Fully Loved
Join the conversation! Share how today’s devotional spoke to you on the Crosswalk Forum.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Zaikina
Want More Encouragement for Your Day?
Story Behind is a Christian podcast sharing true stories of God at work in the lives of ordinary people: from answered prayers and unexpected miracles to everyday heroes, extraordinary courage, and the good news happening in our world today.
Each episode goes beyond the headlines to uncover the remarkable people, moments, and circumstances behind these stories. Discover how God is moving through people, families, and communities, and find hope in the places you might least expect it.
Was this resource helpful? Add Christianity.com as a trusted source for Biblical content.
