A change of season isn’t dependent upon the natural seasonal clock, it occurs when truth comes, causing a paradigm shift within. Internal change brings external change as we create around us, what is inside us. While initially exciting, these shifts can give way to a painful awareness, of how deeply patterns have been carved into our lives. The need to be rescued from a rut, fuels a longing for the distant shore of freedom and relief.
This beachhead is familiar real estate for me. There are some subtle changes, but it’s still recognizable. I’ve been here before and undoubtedly will be here again in the course of my years. It’s bizarre really, how quickly I’ve forgotten past gains. Today’s circumstances eclipse my memory, distorting reality so it seems that once again, I’m alone. Cultivated independence and a little straight-out-of- the-can redhead combine, forming an epoxy hardened resolve. Disregarding my previous record, I try every conceivable option to make things line up with my perception of what is good and right for me.
I am still on the same beach. The water temperature is iced tea.
Exhausted, toes in the sand, I ponder the options of death by drowning, or certain impalement on the spear of hopelessness. Either it’s ‘a good day to die’, or conditions are ripe for the miraculous. The question has become palpable: “Will the Sea part for me?” I know the story. I believe it has, and will part for others, but will it part for me?
Approaching the water, it occurs to me: “At least, I don’t have to wear a bathing suit!” This ridiculous notion sweeps over my emotions, and I laugh aloud. Simultaneously, there is a surge of confidence, as I sense the reality of God’s mercy, bursting across time, and into my current circumstances, touching the most intimate details of my middle aged, swimsuit phobic life. God gets me. God has me. Trusting again, I have peace. I expect to see the impossible way open. I don’t know how or when, but everything will yield to the hand of the One who brought me to this place.
The Red C, is my expression of joyful hope in Jesus Christ. He continually parts the seas for all of us. I hope you will find humor and encouragement in this image as you face your own Red Sea seasons.-lh
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