This past weekend, I went to Manuel Antonio beach in Costa Rica with my other study abroad friends. It was the most beautiful beach and as I sat on the sand watching the sunset, I began to think about how much I love the ocean. I love how it goes on and on forever with the rhythm of the waves. And then someone else said something that stopped me in my tracks: "I love how it makes me feel small." That seemed a little strange to me; I mean, who ever wants to feel small? But as I began to think about it more, I realized that this was actually one of the reasons why I love the ocean.
Feeling small reminds me of how fragile our lives are and what should be most important. Every time I look out at the ocean or gaze up to the tops of the mountains, I remember to refocus my life on what is important. I remember not to worry about all of the petty drama, money, or whatever else I am struggling with at the time, but instead to just be in the moment and soak it all up.
"Be still and know that I am God." - Psalm 46:10.
I have always loved this verse and ever since my trip to Manuel Antonio, it has taken on a new meaning for me. I believe that God created all of this beautiful world for us to enjoy and also to remind us that he is here for us. When I feel small, I remember that I need to turn my eyes to Him because He is what matters most. I am small but that is OK, because he is bigger than me. I am supposed to rely on Him completely, and feeling small reminds me to do just that.
The other day, I was reading the book "Love Does" by Bob Goff (awesome book, you should totally read it) when I came across this quote:
"I enjoy those parts of the Bible where Jesus talks about how much He loves His bride. It makes me wonder if the trees and mountains and rivers are things He planned in advance, knowing they would wow us. I wonder if God returned over and over to this world He placed us in thinking what He had created was good, but it could be even better, even grander. I wonder if He thought each foggy morning, each soft rain, each field of wildflowers would be a quiet and audacious way to demonstrate His tremendous love for us."
So when I look at the ocean or the mountains, I do not just see the beautiful scenery, but instead, I see an amazing thing that God created just to show He loves us. I also know that I am small compared to God, which is an awesome feeling because since I know that God is bigger than me, He is in control. And that's a nice reminder, because I definitely do not want to be the only person in control of my life.
