ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The Corps of Discovery traveled across the country to explore the newly acquired Louisianna Purchase and eventually to reach the Pacific Ocean. It was more than 200 years ago. Can you imagine entering a world of the unknown? It took a group of brave men, along with one woman and her child to cover this new territory. Merriwether Lewis was a naturalist and spent time bird watching and finding new plants along with unknown species of animals. He kept a journal of these activities. Paul Boecher was born in the twentieth century. He was what you might call a Renaissance man – always searching for new things to draw or paint. He kept several journals as well. The above sketch was undoubtedly used as an example for his portrayal of a frontier artist.

The Lewis bird is a woodpecker. They mainly feed on flying insects in midair. You undoubtedly would not see one in Minnesota. They dwell mainly on the Northwest coast of America. I’m not a scientist, nor a naturalist. Paul was neither of those. He was an avid reader and studied the art of this country from its earliest beginnings. He also had a great love of the outdoors. I’m posting this today to show you how the artist/naturalist would capture proof of their findings in the early 1800s. There are many sketches of this bird within the sketch book of Lewis.

God has his eye on each of these creatures. He knows where they sleep, how they raise their young, how they maneuver through the mountains, who are their predators and how to keep them safe. It’s really quite amazing to realize that every part of His creation is in His protection at all times. It’s also difficult to see that in a world which seems to have gone crazy. We can count on His protection as well.

Dear Creator, God, You have designed every creature on this earth. You know their comings and goings. You watch over all of them, because you love them. You have given each one the means to escape danger – to find food – to enjoy Your creation – survive. As we wonder about the state of the world today, it’s easy to understand our confusion and dismay. We look to you to guide us in the way that you want us to go. We ask for your provision and protection, but above all we thank you for your love. The unconditional love you make available to every human being. Help us to stay focused on that and trust that you have a far greater plan than we can imagine. In the name of your precious Son, Jesus. Amen!