This Is My Father’s World

/Rev. Dr. Chong Siaw Fung

“All nature sings and round me rings, the music of the spheres.” (Babcock, 1901)

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. (Rom. 1:20 NIV)

The lyrics of the hymn “This is My Father’s World” by Maltbie B. Babcock, written in 1901, praise the Creator in the context of the nature of His creation. This “Creation Song” calls for our thoughts to rest on the rocks and the trees, on the skies and the seas. Appreciative observation of nature helps us to know more about God the Creator (Rom. 1:20 NIV).

In the song, the nature is portrayed as a choir singing praises to God, with the melodious message ringing around us. The birds, morning light, and the lilies are parts of this choir declaring the adoration for the Creator. Incidentally, the Creator seems to be in close proximity to His creatures (“in rustling grass I hear Him pass”). The title of the song addresses the Creator as “Father” depicting a very intimate relationship between the creature and the Creator.

Perhaps we should recognize that theology is simply inseparable from nature. The astronomical systems, laws of nature, the flora and fauna, and all elements of nature join their voices to glorify their Creator. How much attention do you give to the nature around you? How much of God do you see from all these? To what extent does it lead you to a more enriching knowledge and experience of God? Next time you walk past a garden, slow down to watch and listen to the birds, feel your feet stepping on the lawn, stoop down a bit to sniff the flower, and ponder on the magnificence of the Creator.