Photo ©2010 and Commentary ©2026 by Chuck Davis
Monday, February 9, 2026
Near the end of August 2010, this tiny chipmunk arrested me. The trail to Gem Lake follows high above the waters of Snow Lake and this small creature, without fear, posed on a rock long enough for me to capture this image. As a volunteer backcountry wilderness ranger for the US Forest Service, I have had encounters with many of God’s creatures. Most of them scurry or gallop away. So, I was glad that this chipmunk joined my library of wilderness photography.
How many are your works, O LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number — living things both large and small. There the ships go to and fro, and the leviathan, which you formed to frolic there. These all look to you to give them their food at the proper time. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things (Psalm 104:24-28 NIV).
When we see one of God’s creatures, it may be tempting to provide them with a small snack from our lunch. This Chipmunk displayed the classic signs of frequent interactions with humans. In those moments of temptation, I encourage you to remember the above passage from the Psalms. Just as the animals look to the Creator to give them their food. We too will be satisfied when we turn toward our Creator and Redeemer in times of hunger.