I love the outdoors. I feel like it’s where I can truly commune with God. I can breathe. Anxiety slips away. Life seems calm. Things are peaceful. It’s also one of the best places for prayer and meditation.

Now that it is springtime, head out. Go for a walk around the block. Head to the nearest bike path. Hit the beach. (water is my jam, the absolute best for peace and calm)

In fact, head out with your community. You know, a few friends, your small group, some church members, or anyone interested in a guided time of prayer. To make things easier, the following is a prayer guide for your time together:

Opening Prayer: God of all creation, as we step into the great outdoors, we come before you with open hearts and open minds. We are in awe of the beauty and majesty of your creation, and we are grateful for this opportunity to experience it firsthand. May this time in nature be a time of connection with you, with one another, and with the world around us.

Scripture Reading: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” – Psalm 19:1

Reflection: As we take in the natural world around us, we are reminded of the beauty and power of God’s creation. Whether we are surrounded by towering mountains, a tranquil forest, or a vast expanse of ocean, we are reminded of the greatness of our God. And in the midst of all this, we are invited to be still and know that God is with us.

Silence: Take a moment of silence to reflect on the majesty of God’s creation.

Prayer of Gratitude: God, we are grateful for this time in the outdoors, for the opportunity to connect with your creation in a unique and profound way. We are grateful for the beauty that surrounds us, and for the way that it speaks to our souls. We thank you for the ways that you reveal yourself to us through your creation, and for the reminder that we are a part of something much greater than ourselves.

Closing Prayer: God, as we prepare to leave this place, we ask for your blessing upon us. May we carry with us the memory of your beauty and the reminder of your presence with us. May we be inspired to care for the earth that you have entrusted to us, and to be good stewards of your creation. And may we always be mindful of your presence with us, wherever we may be.

In your holy name we pray. Amen.