Against the backdrop of a cloudless sky, a Pacific Ocean breeze was my companion on a hike to the beautiful Sea Lion Point vista. This panoramic view found in Lobos State Park near Carmel by the Sea, California did not disappoint. As far as the eye could see the ocean continued to the horizon’s edge. The imagery confirmed God’s awesome power as captured in Isaiah 40:
Isaiah 40:12
Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand and marked off the heavens with a span, enclosed the dust of the earth in a measure and weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance?
The waves filled with blue and white colors met the rugged shoreline with a soothing repetition. The scenic journey was a collection of diverse rock formations and plant life. While admiring the breathtaking evidence of God’s creative power, I saw a couple venturing to the rocky edge where the sea lions were basking in the sun. In full disregard for the ropes which clearly delineated the approved trail boundaries, their desire for further exploration suppressed any sense of obligation to abide by park regulations. Their actions, however, not only put the sensitive ecosystems but also their own safety in potential peril. Apparently notified by other visitors, a park ranger patiently waited for the couple to return from their unauthorized adventure.
As I walked by, I heard the Ranger respectfully explaining the elements of safety as well as environmental preservation as rationale for remaining on the marked trails. The defensive response from the couple was not unexpected:
“We aren’t from around here. We didn’t know.”
Accompanying an insuppressible smirk, I wondered about their place of origin which apparently had not attached any meaning to the presence of ropes indicating restricted access. Desiring relief from the ongoing exchange of excuses and explanations, I moved down the trail allowing the ocean breeze to serve as a natural attenuator. The enormity of God’s creative work left me in awe – I truly felt so insignificant. Whether hiking in the mountains or walking the trails along the ocean’s shores, there is haven from the confusion of man’s activities – a wilderness cathedral where I can meet with God. This day was no exception.
My moment with God was interrupted as the couple approached having been released by the ranger to continue their hiking experience. Their grumbling conversation gradually became disturbingly apparent. Passing just behind me, an attitude of rebellion toward the authoritative rebuke was clearly expressed:
“I am not listening to you. I don’t really give a …”
His declaration concluded with strong profanity consistent with his animated gestures reflecting frustration and embarrassment with being held accountable. Rounding a bend in the trail, their voices faded. But even as the quiet returned, my heart was deeply troubled by the man’s words in a most unanticipated manner. My thoughts were not ones of offense, anger, or rebuke; rather, I was drawn to a deep reflection of my own character. A lesson of humility and contrition was suddenly pulling at my soul like the ocean riptide below. I scanned my surroundings seeking comfort from the troubling revelation. The sun poured down warmth from the abounding blue sky, the breeze brushed against my face, waves crashing against the rocky boundaries echoed, and even the distant sound of a seal conversation reverberated. The evidence of God’s attributes filled my mind – His omnipotence, sovereignty, righteousness, holiness, and faithfulness were undeniable. But against this divine backdrop there remained a troubling conviction. The spoken words of defiance from a complete strange exposed an offensiveness, a rebellion toward God’s authority in my own life. Demanding my own path and ignoring the ropes of God’s truth were revealed. Aware of the ear, hearing yet deaf, and to the eye, seeing yet blind, I trembled at the warning of Isaiah’s prophecy not wanting to squander this trail journey experience. Standing in the presence of creation glory, the Light caused a cry of confession:
“I have not been listening to you God.”
Tears clouded my once pristine view of the beauty before me, a perfect metaphor for my heart’s condition. I was so ashamed. While filled with profession of faith, unmistakably the second rooster crow of Peter’s denial sounded in my soul. Shuffling aimlessly kicking at the dirt path, I couldn’t look up to face God. Betrayal of the One who gave graciously exposed remnants of the dark domain from my past. I was drawn by Him, called to be in another kingdom, yet indwelling sin persisted.
It was then I was reminded of the great sacrifice He made for my justification. The power of the Holy Spirt was the path to victory over such disobedience – this was not of my own means. I realized my sojourn on this earthly plane remained a daily challenge as I was called to take a stand for my God serving as a solider in this unrelenting spiritual war. Indeed, I had been freed from the grips of the evil one, no longer required to bow as slave to sin; rather, a slave to righteousness. The gift of Grace, because of His great Love, even when I was dead in my transgressions – a love expression beyond description.
Slowly the ocean breeze dried my tears, once again restoring a clear view of God’s amazing creation on full display around me. It was time to move on. But for that moment I had an encounter with God who, in love, revealed a rebellious tone in one who had been adopted into His fold – a child who needed to be reminded of the ongoing pursuit of holiness which brings Him much glory in the heavenly realms. He spoke, I listened. He displayed, I witnessed. Having been granted understanding, the Apostle Paul’s admonition was clear – press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
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