As we enter the beautiful season of Autumn, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable gift from God that is often taken for granted – our five senses. These senses are the gateway to experiencing the world around us and appreciating the wonder of God’s creation.
I spent an enjoyable hour a couple of weeks ago raking up the cut grass from the churchyard’s wildflower meadow with Robin and great team of people. I was struck at how it stirred up the Holy Spirit in me to consider how wonderful God’s gifts of the five senses were. God created us with five basic senses: sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. He intricately designed each sense organ to transmit information to our brain. Our five senses help us understand and notice what is happening in our world.
Our sense of sight allows us to witness the breath-taking beauty of the world. That morning for me it was the colours in the churchyard, the intricate details of a flower, and the joyful expressions on the faces of the team. Let us remember to use our vision to appreciate the wonders of creation and to see the needs of those around us.
The gift of hearing allows us to listen; during that time for me it was the songs of the birds, the laughter of the dog walkers and the team around me. It also enables us to hear the cries of those in need, and the call of the Lord to serve others. In our prayers, let us ask for the wisdom to truly listen to one another and to God’s guidance.
Taste and smell allow us to savour the delicious flavours of food and drink, as well as the pleasant fragrances of flowers and nature. There was a definite smell to the cut grass; it is hard to describe but it made me think of summer months. Though I didn’t literally taste the grass I did taste the drink that was considerately put out for us. Let us remember to be thankful for the nourishment of our bodies and souls.
Our sense of touch connects us to the world in a tangible way. It enables us to offer a comforting hug, a helping hand, or a gentle tap. The dry grass was spiky, warm and rough but through touch, we can convey love, support, and compassion to one another. May we always use this sense to reach out to those in need and to share the warmth of God’s love.
Let’s remember to praise and thank the Lord for the gifts of our senses.Gill – Churchwarden