Messages from the Shore

This week on the Jersey Shore with my family has been a time of learning, growing, and resting.

I've been learning by listening to what my Lord has to say in the everyday things of life. For example, my little sister has been very helpful. One thing I've noticed, and something she has learned by harsh experience, is how easily she gets lost on the shore. In the sea of blankets, chairs, and umbrellas it's hard to find your way. So as she headed up towards my parents, I made sure she knew which blanket she was going to, and then I watched her the whole way. As she maneuvered through the towels and sleeping people, she kept her eyes fixed on the place where she knew our parents were waiting for her. I was keenly aware of how much we should be like this for our whole lives, walking with our eyes fixed on the call of Jesus, knowing that will keep us from getting lost.

I've been growing by reading an amazing book. I do not use the word lightly; this book has been enlightening regarding the way that our Lord has made women to live and honor him in this world. It is called, Captivating; Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul, by John and Stasi Eldredge. It has highlighted for me what the treasure of a woman's heart was made to be. We desire to be romanced, to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, and to unveil beauty. John and Stasi have a beautiful way of showing exactly what God had in mind when he created women; this is possibly the finest treatment I have ever seen of what it means to be a redeemed woman of God. I am greatly looking forward to re-reading and working out what this book has shown me in my life.

I've been resting and relaxing this week, simply focusing on enjoying this time with my family, in a beautiful setting, where my heart, soul, and mind can just be at peace. At the same time I've been enjoying several verses the Lord has reminded me of.

"It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep." Ps. 127:2
"I am my Beloved's and my Beloved is mine." Canticles 6:3
"He leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul." Ps. 23:2b-3a

So thankful for this week of restoration, heart, soul, and mind; learning, growing, and resting.