Splashes of Sunshine

The warmth of the sunshine fills the air, and giggles and laughter mingle with the sound of water lapping at the shore. An impromptu visit to the lake never fails to provide an afternoon of enjoyment for the entire family. To some, a visit of this sort would simply involve strolling along the beach while taking in the view. But for some of us, it entails so much more. Why - the possibilities are endless! The first thing you must do is kick off your shoes, for that is always the best way to get the most of your excursion. After that, you have so many options to choose from! Sculpting miniature turtles from the wet earth, sketching in the sand, attempting to walk across a fallen log without plunging into the water, getting stuck up to your knees in the mud, having rock skipping competitions, or simply exploring the wonders of God's creation.

Afternoons spent in this fashion are perhaps the most lovely sort of afternoons. Wouldn't you agree?

(photo credit: my mom)

(photo credit: my mom)

(photo credit: my mom)

(photo credit: Sarah)

(photo credit: my mom)

(photo credit: Sarah)

Because what this world has to offer just isn't enough

In a world that exalts talent, careers, beauty, relationships, and money, have we lost sight of what really matters? Have we allowed ourselves to spend our lives chasing after the things that this world says are important, all the while rejecting the very reason we were placed on this earth?

We weren't made for this world - we were made for something so much greater. As children of the most high King, we were made to spread His glory to the nations. We weren't made for comfortable lives that conveniently allow us to ignore the hurt and the needs that are right outside our door.

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there you heart will be also." - Matthew 6:19-21

The things of this world will pass away...so why chase after that which we cannot keep? The worst that can happen to us in this life is that we die. That is the worst that man can do to us. So why do we fear men when it is God who holds our eternal destiny? Why do we strive to please men when it's God who we should be seeking to please?

"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot loose." 

- Jim Elliot -