Egmont Key, Florida
Do you ever wonder what it is about the ocean that calls to us? Is it the vastness of God’s creation as we look over the horizon? Is it the mystery that it holds? Maybe it’s something deeper and more spiritual.
When we go to the beach, it’s usually for a vacation, for a break from the everyday busyness of life. We take time to enjoy our spouses and our kids. We relax. We laugh. We rest. For a very short time, we remember who and what matters most to us. We take photos and make memories.
Then, we pack up and go home. We get busy again and stress sets in as our tans fade. We get consumed with everyday living. But, we dream of returning to the beach. We make plans six months or more ahead of time for the next trip. We save our money to go. Our kids get excited about going back year after year.
I think there are some places that are simply spiritual because they are glaring examples of God’s beautiful creativity. The oceans are mentioned in the Creation story right at the beginning. He didn’t have to create sugar, white sand and crystal clear waters, but He did. The rhythmic sound of the waves can soothe even the most ornery soul. The beach appeals to all of our senses. I doubt that is by chance.
Blue Ridge, Georgia
The mountains is another place that feels spiritual to me. I can see so much of God’s handiwork in all of the natural beauty that surrounds them. The endless vistas that stretch on for miles really make me want to sit down and drink it all in. The quiet serenity there is like a comfortable blanket. I feel close to God when I’m there.
I think we have an inborn desire to be closer to God and closer to each other. When we visit beautiful places, there is no denying that God is here with us. His fingerprints are everywhere. When we feel closer to the One who created us, then we naturally feel closer to the ones He created to walk with us. Our families are gifts from God, just like the mountain vistas and sandy beaches and they are just as beautiful.
There are certain places that help us remember how much we love each other, how special family is and how time flies when we aren’t looking. They are gorgeous reminders that we are loved by the One who flung the stars into existence and we are to love the treasure of family that has been given to us. I just love being reminded of my blessings in beautiful ways. Don’t you? Feel free to share.
Have an awesome day!
Wendy 🙂