Drawing Close, Encountering Joy

Over the two years I have written book reviews for the EcoFaith newsletter, most have been about climate change and the threats to the environment and how and why we human beings need to change our ways.

Janice Kirk’s book is a refreshing departure from that theme.  Through poetry, drawings, prayers and scripture readings, she calls upon the reader to “enjoy nature’s wonders every day.”

I did that as I read through her book, sitting on the edge of the lake where I live.  I would recommend reading this short volume as close to nature as you can.  The context and inspiration for her writings and water color drawings come mainly from her travels in the landscapes of the western United States, from Alaska to Arizona.  Since I also have explored much of the natural places out west, from Alaska to Arizona, her observations brought back fond memories of being in the midst of the beauty and wonder of those environments.  Kirk does include thoughts on climate change, a chapter on lament, “Campfire Cadence,” is a reminder of the concern we should all have about what is happening to the earth through human exploitation and that we all need to love the earth more, as reflected in God’s love and care for that same earth.

Almost each page is headed by a scripture passage relating to nature.  Many different biblical translations are employed, with an emphasis on Eugene Peterson’s The Message.  There is a section on further reading and a page of questions for discussion, such as “Do certain poems trigger flashbacks of memorable times in the outdoors?” (certainly)  “Should people of faith be concerned with Creation Care?”

 I highly recommend this book for group discussion, that many of you attend.  I also recommend reading it slowly and repeatedly to allow her poetry and illustrations to inspire and bring you joy.

An example.

Matins Prayer Walk

O Lord, I walk the land at gleam of dawn

Shining window to your world,

And ours.

Skies grow ever brighter

Filling all the  world with light

Prepared for proclamation.

I raise my hands to greet the day

And call upon your Name –

Savior, Lord, Creator of the universe,

Illuminate with love, this time, this place,

Your righteousness, our standard,

Your faithfulness, our hope.

Come, Lord Jesus, come,

Walk once more upon this earth,

Your spoken, crafted, molded work of love,

Rich garden for the soul.

Alleluia.

And at the end of the book:

… in silence

Listen to the landscape

Watch for the wind

Reach out to the rain

Salute the dawn of each day

Embrace the flowing spirit of all earth dwellers

Strengthen shared bonds

Sing out with thanksgiving

Sing out with joy

As the hidden wholeness enfolds you.

Listen … Listen,

Listen to the Land.

May you find joy and inspiration in Janice Kirk’s words and art.

Rev. John Hanson

Big Fork, Minnesota