Reflections While Walking in the Sand

It isn't always easy walking in the sand, but you can walk barefooted.

Somehow there is a sense of peace given as I walk barefoot in the sand.

It isn't always easy, as the sand is often shifting, there are hills and valleys to walk through. Near the tide the sand is wet and often deep, my feet sink in and it's hard to keep walking forward. Sometimes there's hard shells and pointed glass along the shoreline-my feet hurt . The wet tide comes up unexpectedly and I'm caught off balance, pant wet and sandy!

The sand often takes on different shapes and densities

. The sand is thick and deep and hard to walk in. My feet sink in. It's been lightly sifted. When it's windy there are ripples all along the sand expanse, all the footprints lost in the air.

It's fun to see new fresh indentations return as the sand settles and the birds walk again!

On the beach in the wind the birds will often settle into a V on the sand feathered  faces into the wind. They don't pay attention to me as I walk by.

After the rain, the sand is wet and filled with debris. It's so easy to walk because the sand is compact, raindrop imprints still left behind. I reach the shore so quickly I am surprised.

There's little bugs that fly up near the shore and bite me, until the truck comes to clean and sift the messy sand.

Along the shore there's seaweed and other treasures. I have to walk around them, the sand and water churning near my feet. The birds are on a treasure hunt in the sand. They enjoy the experience, complaining and guarding their finds.

Ephesians 6:15

And as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.

Overwhelmed

John 6:1-12 Feeding the Five Thousand

Thinking about the story of Jesus feeding the crowd with 5 loaves and 2 fishes.

Jesus tried to go away alone to pray, but the people followed him. He couldn't get away. I think he wanted to get away because he knew his disciples wouldn't have faith for what God was about to do.

And if he prayed they might.

But God had another plan. He wanted to use the least, the weak, to solve a problem. 

So when the crowd pressed in Jesus pressed back, surrendering all to give generously out of all he was given.

The physical gift of a little boys lunch was small, but what was in Jesus was powerful and plenty. He gave enough to satisfy a multitude and he pressed out so tremendously there was an abundance.

More than necessary. The gift of a lunch from a small boy was enough.

His disciples were learning to trust in a way and at a time when weakness

became strength. 

Because God is Great!

Palm Tree Highlight

We've been noticing Palm Trees. The tall kind that go way high in the sky. They bend and sway in the wind, they may bend but they rarely fall over!

Their palm fronds are evergreen . Some Palm Trees have delicious fruit. They stand tall and resilient in the wind and weather! They almost look like they are worshipping with their arms lifted high in the blue sky!

I found rhese encouraging verses in Psalm 92:12-15 (I like the new Passion Translation) "Yes! Look how you've made all your lovers To flourish like palm trees!

They're all growing in victory, standing with strength. You've transplanted them into Your heavenly courtyard, where they are thriving before You. For in Your presence they will still overflow and be anointed: Even in their old age they will stay fresh, Bearing luscious fruit and abiding faithful. Listen to them! With pleasure they still proclaim: "You're so good! You're my Beautiful Strength!

You've never made a mistake with me!"

Yes, now I'm feeling encouraged and sharing this Palm Tree message with whomever will listen😃

Swan Lights

View From the Porch

Lava-Like Love

Beach before the rain

💙Blue Heaven

Low Tide Reflection

They Make it A Spring