One factor of the environment of Big Bend that God used to help me understand Him better were the crystal clear night skies. I grew up in the city and did not get out much.

Being here in Big Bend was one of the few times I have escaped light pollution and really seen stars.

Seeing bunches of stars gives new meaning to star illustrations in Scripture—be it God’s care for man or God’s knowledge. I have a better idea of the breadth of God’s characteristics that are liked to the stars now that I have seen them

God also furnished great object lessons and ideas for messages through creation. Being in a desert was helpful for discussing wilderness wandering. The rejuvenating effect of water upon a desert was a great springboard for discussing Ezekiel 47 and the river of life.

A marathon in the desert was a good Segway into discussing wilderness wandering.

Earth Day was a great time to reflect on God’s mission to Man to care for and restore creation.

Michael K., Big Bend National Park, 2014