Currently in San Diego, we are experiencing a unique phenomenon — bioluminescent waves. Literally waves that glow. And just in case you think the images were just photo-shopped or that it’s a trick of the light, I can attest to the fact that they are very real and unbelievably amazing.
Our family drove out to La Jolla Beach last night and the waves were glowing blue. I’ve never seen anything like it. Even native San Diegans say these are more vibrant than in years past. We stood (at a safe distance from others of course) for a while, marveling at this unique display of God’s creativity.
My son loves the ocean. He’s gotten quite proficient on the boogie board since we’ve lived here. He knows how to “read” waves — He knows which ones are worth catching and which ones he should pass on. He has friends who surf, and they know the waves even better, speaking of them as one would speak of a friend. But even the most proficient surfer recognizes that there is an unpredictability to the waves. They can give you an amazing ride or they can drop you and leave you beaten and gasping for air.
CS Lewis talks about how the Christian life is like ocean waves: There are waves that crash into us, knocking us flat, and waves that roll along, moving gently past us. There are waves like we saw last night — waves that amaze and astound us. And then there are the nasty waves that stink and are filled with all kinds of debris.
But like my son and his friends, if we can “know” the waves — and remember that they all pass — we can better enjoy the journey God has us on. And as we mature in our understanding of the Christian life, we discover that even the worst waves don’t have to drag us under.
I’ve been studying the book of James, and he reminds his readers that trials (“big waves”) should actually bring us joy — they are an opportunity to be strengthened and mature. I have seen that in my own life. Times of uncertainty used to “drown” me. I still don’t love them. I doubt I ever will. But, during this time of complete disruption, I’ve been at peace, when years before, I would have been in chaos. But I know God is in control, I have seen Him bring calm out of chaos, I have experienced His stilling of my soul. I may have never faced this particular “wave”, but I’ve seen some big ones, and with God’s help, I have survived.
So take heart, friends, this WILL pass. And, while we wait, ask God what He wants you to learn, focus on what He has for you to do TODAY. Don’t worry about tomorrow, don’t stress about what that next “wave” might bring. God’s mercies are new every morning, so no matter what happens, He’ll get you through it!
And in the meantime, look for what’s beautiful. You may not have glowing waves in your back yard, but I promise if you look for the beauty in God’s creation around you, you’ll find it.
