Many moons ago, my husband took me to Maui for a getaway. Like every other human on this planet who loves God’s green earth, I had a splendid time. God’s creation was more colorful and vivid there than anywhere else I had ever seen. Not sure if that was because I was newly in love, or because I was in Hawaii.
The beaches were filled with happy people vacationing, soaking up the sun and the beauty. We went snorkeling and I saw some of the most amazing sea creatures in that clear turquoise water. Colorful fish, sea turtles, corals, and creatures I did not even know existed. And I am certain I was only scratching the surface.
Our next getaway that involved water took us to Monterey, another personal favorite. We went kayaking in the ocean and I saw sea lions and otters bobbing in and out of the cold water, appearing to have a genuinely good time. Not far from that cove is a famous scuba diving spot. My husband used to scuba dive and gave me a glimpse into what it is like.
I was skeptical at first about the idea of going so deep into the dark, cold ocean with a tank strapped to your back and a mask that fogs up. But his enthusiasm and love of it made me see the allure of the dark ocean water. My husband described how the loud beaches suddenly go quiet and the ocean takes over with its own sounds: marine life sounds, clicks, creaks, and the movements of fish and other creatures. Sounds that are otherwise impressive above the surface, like a propeller boat, sound like nothing more than a whiny hum underwater.
There is no denying that water is beautiful at every depth, whether enjoyed on the beach, just below the surface while snorkeling, or deep down with scuba gear on. I see our journey with Scripture in the exact same way. Light reading is good. It feels like warm rays of sun bathing us in love and rejuvenating our soul, but we are still among the noise of the world.
Under the surface, we get a better picture of our one true God through deeper time in devotion, prayer, and stillness in His company. We are aware of the surface. We know the world is out there and that we belong on terra firma, but for now we are in a place that inspires awe and a longing that fills that deep desire to connect with true love.
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”
-James 4:8
When we dive even deeper, the connection with God grows. We spend more time and energy immersing ourselves in the ways of God that are written on our hearts. We are able to watch the noise of the world fade into whiny hums while Scripture resonates like the rich sounds of the deep ocean. God’s handiwork becomes apparent in every passing moment. Scripture verses pop into our heads, giving mundane tasks unexpected depth and meaning, guiding us and goading us to stay on the narrow path.
“But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”
-Jeremiah 31:33
I pray that your spiritual journey involves metaphorical scuba gear, incredible depths of discovery that will open your eyes to God’s love, and dull the world’s noise and commotion into a whiny, ignorable hum. God bless you.
Dear God,
Thank You for giving me the freedom and resources to grow closer to You. Please teach me to dive into the depths of Your love and leave behind everything that is a distraction to worshipping You. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.