Our vacations are simple. Our vacations are based on the three Rs.
Relax. Refresh. Rejoice.
We relax by parking our behinds in chairs on the sandy, sun drenched beach. We refresh by walking for miles beside, and sometimes in, the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. We rejoice by enjoying the amazing beauty of God's creation.
We've been to the island several times and are always amazed at the huge expanse of beach during low tide. This year, however, we noticed large amounts of ocean debris that littered the upper beach areas. We're talking mounds and mounds of straw-like branches.
It turns out that while October's Hurricane Joaquin veered away from the Eastern coastline, the outlying winds churned the depths of the ocean and by sheer force carried palm trees, building debris and huge amounts of cord grass onto the shore. Because it's quite unsightly, we wondered why it hadn't been removed. That question was answered by one of the locals who told us that, while the grass is not very attractive, it is unlawful to remove it. It is likely that over time, sand will cover and build over the cord grass and form new dunes. Dunes that will offer protection from future storms.
Life sure mimics that storm-battered coastline. The churning storms of life bring trials and suffering. We are assaulted by the sheer force of illness, death, job loss and stress. The "debris" left behind looks ugly and oppressive. We want that debris removed so life is clean and pretty.
But wait! God's Word helps us understand suffering and trials. From Psalm 62:5-8 (Living Bible):
But I stand silently before the Lord, waiting for him to rescue me. For salvation comes from him alone. Yes, he alone is my Rock, my rescuer, defense, and fortress—why then should I be tense with fear when troubles come?
My protection and success come from God alone. He is my refuge, a Rock where no enemy can reach me. O my people, trust him all the time. Pour out your longings before him, for he can help!And then from I Peter 4:12-13 (The Message):
Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.Storms come. Debris clutters the beach of life. And all the while, the dune of protection is being built. as promised by God. Seek refuge in him.
