Nature therapy

I'm pretty sure mountains are my love language. :)  The beach is nice, but I'm not a huge fan of swimming. Cities can be interesting, but are often too busy and overwhelming. But nature, mountains... I can take in the scenery all day. For several days - or weeks - and not get tired of it.

Last week I had the privilege of joining my brother and sister-in-law for a few days in the Austrian Alps. It was a huge gift after a rather draining spring.  But with this view every morning from our balcony,

with my journal and cup of tea, my soul begins to be restored. In the stillness, the peace, with no responsibility and no task other than to soak on the beauty and awesomeness, a quietness comes over my heart and my mind. My God, my rock, my refuge and strength. He is capable. He is trustworthy. My unshakable mountain, and yet creator of and greater than these majesties. And infinitely knowledgeable about every inch of his entire creation, including each and every one of his children. Including me.

I hated to leave. The few days we had here was not nearly long enough. :) This creation is amazing and pictures just don't do it justice. But I'm grateful for the few days we did have, and will dream of the next excursion to the mountains. On my bucket list for some day: hike to the top of one of these. Doesn't even have to be one of the taller snow-capped mountain - just one with a view. :)

Grossglockner, highest peak in Austria at almost 3800 meters. And the largest glacier in Austria right below it.

Drove to Italy one morning, because when it's only and hour away, why not?!

That lake down there is in Italy

And then we drove to it.

What does not satisfy: a month later

So, in April I shared about seeking attention and comfort in things other than Jesus - at least in a few areas, His grace has been great. I deleted Instagram and Facebook (though not Messenger...) from my phone and didn't look at them for a month. And when the month was up and I did look at them, I realized there's not much that draws me there - except a few pictures and updates from family (it's hard when you're far away!). But in the past week, it hasn't been much of a temptation. Yes, I've looked at them. But instead of several (or more than several...) times a day, it's been something like once every other day. And I think I'm ok with that.

I'm not sure I've had more time to engage meaningfully with people, but I have noticed an ability to rely on and notice God in the moments. The strength on hard days, a random conversation that was a blessing, His affirmation in me and beginning to live out of Belovedness rather than Neediness. It's definitely a process and I feel like I'm still exploring ankle-deep water compared to the depth that is possible. I still crave connection and connection is valuable, but I believe I'm moving in a good direction in its focus and priority, especially as it relates to where I turn first with my emotions.

And I've been much more intentional about seeking God, spending time in prayer and listening and longing for more of that rich fare that God has in abundance. John 7 stuck out to me the other day: If anyone is thirsty, come to me and drink and out of you will flow rivers of living water. From deep inside, naturally. I long for that living water to spill from my life, to display joy and peace and love, to bless others without thought. I'm far from perfect. I'm often selfish with my time, with my money, with my energy. But I long for these to be transformed as my identity is becoming more complete in Christ alone. He is the living water deep inside, where I am completely whole, deeply satisfied, fully given because I know the truth of who He is and who I am. My desire is the day when I am putting my ultimate hope and trust undividedly in his unfailing love.