Lessons by the Ocean

Walking on the beach on the Atlantic Ocean side can be tricky. For those raised going to the Gulf of Mexico, we are accustomed to sand beaches.  The Atlantic side, in contrast, is covered with seashells.  

One of our travelers was all about gathering shells - which caused us to have a good supply of beautiful shells! As we started going through our supply it hit me - look at how they are all unique. Some small. Some large. Some with little holes. Some with larger breaks. All different.  All beautiful!

So, I asked the girls, "With all that the Lord created, why do you think He made so many unique shells? Why couldn't they all just be the same?" Their response warmed my heart and I thought it was worth sharing.

They are examples of us:
1) Unique - even me, an identical twin, am unique and made in a special way.  Learning to appreciate that our differences are not a coincidence- they are His design.  My flaws and strengths were woven together.  I pray for a more grateful heart to appreciate my differences and those of others around me. Also, helping young ones appreciate the different talents and skills that make them special.

2) Broken, but with a purpose.  The pressure of the ocean waves. The heavy feet stepping on top.  Pressure may have caused a break, but we can still use it for good.  In fact, the girls exclaimed, "The broken ones are perfect for necklaces!"  Just as we experience pressure and brokenness- He will use it for His beautiful plan.  We don't understand, but there is a purpose. We aren't broken for no reason - we are refined for His plan.

3) Together we can soften the path for others.  If you've ever stepped on a big shell you know - It Hurts!  But, something about walking on the small crushed shells actually makes it easier to bear.  In the same way, as Christians, we can soften the path for others.  We can come together. We can be transparent. We can pray for them and with them.  We can make the path easier.



Lord,
Your creation is amazing! Thank you for the details that point to Your glory and Your love for us.  Thank You for turning a walk on the beach to a reassurance of Your plan.  May the lessons of the seashells be used to glorify You.
Amen