Just Corn
Great is [God], and greatly to be praised. [God’s] greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts. – Psalm 145:3-4 (NRSV)
I was looking forward to teaching the day’s lesson in my Intro to Religious Studies course at Mercy College in Toledo, Ohio. Early in the semester, I had become aware that my nursing and pharmacy students, though inquisitive and thoughtful, were skeptical about anything without scientific proof. On this day, the lesson explored awe: what it is, what it teaches, and how it is a core aspect of spirituality and life as a human being.
I began by asking if anyone could define the word “awe.” Silence. Not discouraged, I asked them when the last time they had experienced something they might call “awe.” Again, silence.
So I told them about the evening before. I was driving home from school on Highway 75, which is lined by corn fields. The sun was setting at such an angle that it appeared to have set all the tassels on top of the stalks on fire. The fields looked as if they were aflame in glory. It took my breath away. I had to pull over. All I could do was express gratitude to the One who had granted me this vision.
A young woman called out from the back row in an exasperated voice: “Doctor Kate, it was just corn!”
I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. It confirmed for me that book learning wasn’t all we needed to do that semester. Developing a reverent awe for creation is the most reasonable thing we can do to heal our planet and bless one another.
When was the last time you experienced awe in your body, mind, and soul? What did it teach you?
Tell someone about it. Share it, so that this essential spiritual practice of awe is cultivated for generations to come.
Prayer
God of creation, give us the eyes to see the glory of just corn in a cornfield, and the heart to embrace the mystery of all creation. Amen.
About the AuthorKate Winters is a semi-retired UCC pastor and educator. Find more of her writing at Dwelling in Presence.