The large numbers of Bison in Lamar Valley were a surprise and an encouragement.
If people return to God with all their heart, with fasting and weeping, he will be gracious. He will no longer make His people a reproach among the nation and the beasts of the field will be blessed with green pastures.
“Fear not, you beasts of the field, for the pastures of the wilderness are green.” Joel 2:22
The Bison and land were blessed by God with rolling hills, clear streams, and grass-covered meadows feed by abundant rains. Let us meditate on His provision with awe. Consider His care for so many creatures around the world. We can provide a refuge, but only God can make the grass grow.
“Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre! He covers the heavens with clouds; he prepares rain for the earth; he makes grass grow on the hills. He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry. His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the legs of a man, but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.” Psalm 147:7-11
I appreciated having a zoom lens on my camera to get a close look at a bull. What a magnificent animal! One of the reasons they survived the winters in the wilderness is that they have large heads and strong neck muscles that enabled them to move snow aside and access food. The front of the animal is covered with a thick coat of hair, protecting them as they plowed through snow. These features show the foresight of the Creator-God.
Such an impressive animal may cause one to set them up as something to worship. One needs to be careful not to idolize creatures and forget the God who made them.
“And if you forget the LORD your God and go after other Gods and serve them and worship them, I solemnly warn you today that you shall surely perish.” Deuteronomy 8:19
Bulls tend the cows during the rut. Their affection is surprising and is another evidence of God’s hand. We saw a bull licking a cow, followed by her soft voice of approval and his deep response. Every creature has a difference voice illustrating the infinite creative abilities of our God.
The male is given the responsibility as the leader, the head. This trait is shared among animals. The behavior speaks to a common Creator. It serves as an illustration of His word to us. Husbands are to imitate Christ, who laid down His life for the church.
“For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior” (Ephesians 5:23).
A calf may be with its mother about a year, staying with the herd that protects it against wolves. And so bison multiply and honor their Creator by adding to a picture of His goodness.
“The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.” Psalm 145:9
