A Day at Elk Island: Reflections on God’s Beauty and Peace

Our visit to Elk Island National Park was a beautiful success. We arrived early, around 9:15 a.m., eager to find a good spot. The weather was perfect for camping, and we quickly set up our tent beside tall green flourishing trees overlooking the breathtaking Astotin Lake.

Standing there, surrounded by nature’s grandeur, we were reminded of how fearfully and wonderfully we are made. Yet, when we look beyond ourselves to the vastness of creation, our hearts bow in awe at the immeasurable power of God. The calm waters, the tiny islands crowned with trees of every shape and height, and the unforgettable sunset—painting the sky with countless colors reflected on the lake—spoke louder than words. It brought to mind the hymn: “O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder consider all the works Thy hands have made…” How great Thou art indeed!

That morning, some of us spotted herds of bison along the driving loops, a majestic sight of God’s handiwork. Others explored trails and watched people paddling quietly across the lake. At one point, we nearly lost our picnic supplies to well-meaning park officers, but thankfully, everything was restored, and we were able to share a joyful lunch together. Later in the day, we walked the Astotin Lake bridge, capturing stunning photos of wildlife and finally ending the evening beneath a glorious sunset over the lake.

The day naturally divided itself into two moments of fellowship: morning and evening. As we gathered for breakfast, there was a shared sense that God’s blessings would overflow. During our hike, we marveled at His wonders, pausing under shaded trees to reflect on His goodness. We were reminded that while it’s easy to complain about what we lack, we must not overlook the countless blessings surrounding us—life itself, shelter, food, provision, and His sustaining grace through every season. So, we spent time soaking ourselves into the inspiration of the Goodness of God music.

Instead of dwelling on pain or unmet desires, we were encouraged to lift our hearts in gratitude. Solomon, who once had everything his heart desired, concluded that all is vanity apart from God. True joy is found not in possessions, but in remembering His unfailing promises.
– Ecclesiastes 1:2 “Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.”

In the late afternoon, we gathered again for worship and teaching. Myrna and Donna led us in a discussion on finding peace in a chaotic world. Surrounded by noise, laughter, and activity in the park, Myrna posed a powerful question: “How can we find and sustain peace in the middle of life’s chaos?” The answer is clear—true and lasting peace is found only in Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Without Him, our search is endless; with Him, we find a calm that no storm can steal.

Donna illustrated this truth with the image of a funnel. God’s peace flows steadily into the lives of His children—those who have made a covenant of peace with Him through Christ. But this flow can be blocked. Sin, doubt, unforgiveness, hatred, pride, murmuring, and secret sins all act as barriers, preventing His peace from reaching us. The Scriptures remind us: 1John 3:9: “Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. “Do all things without complaining… that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault” (Philippians 2:14-15). We must be quick to repent and make our ways right with God whenever He reveals our shortcomings or failures. He is always ready to forgive, and we, in turn, must humbly keep our hearts open to the Spirit’s leading.

Peace begins with peace with God—when we surrender to Him, confess our sins, and receive salvation through Jesus Christ. As He said: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).

Also, to enjoy His abiding peace, we must live in His presence daily—letting go of yesterday’s burdens and tomorrow’s anxieties. God meets us in the present moment. When we trust Him with the future, He rewards our faith with His peace. As Hebrews 11:6 declares: “He who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

That day at Elk Island was more than just a camping trip. It was a reminder that God’s creation points us to His majesty, His blessings remind us of His goodness, and His presence secures us in His perfect peace.