Below the Surface
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)
The first time I went to the ocean, I developed a fear. I wanted to know what was down there, but I didn’t want to know at the same time. Conflicted? Yes! Hence, I am apprehensive about any boating in the river, lake, or ocean. Don’t show me pictures of what is down below! (A psychiatrist would have a hay day with that statement.) Anyway, Shirley Raye Redmond (All God’s Creatures) has a great perspective of what lies beneath the surface.
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While we were visiting Hawaii, my family went snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on the southeast coast of Oahu. Thankfully, one doesn’t need to be an experienced swimmer or snorkeler to enjoy the myriad marine life beneath the pristine waters in this calm and lovely bay. It was an unforgettable experience. The colorful fish were beautiful and abundant—parrotfish, butterfly fish, sunny yellow tangs, and even slithering eels.
I felt a tingle of delight when a green sea turtle leisurely swam past right in front of me. I rejoiced in seeing a part of God’s creation that I’d never experienced before. While standing on the beach staring out over the water, I had no hint of the splendors below the calm surface. I had to plunge into the sea to enjoy the beauty concealed there.
The experience made me realize that Christ can easily view below the surface of my being—deep into my heart and mind. He understands my motives, my hopes, and dreams. Yes, He can also see my inner rebellion, even when I may appear smilingly compliant to others. He knows when I embrace a modern idolatry, harbor bitter feelings toward someone who has wronged me, or hold a grievance against someone I love. Nothing escapes His notice.
On the other hand, it’s a great comfort to know that Jesus can also see the goodness below the surface as I patiently endure a snub when I’ve been wrongly misjudged or received an undeserved rebuke. He sees it all. He knows and cares. And best of all—as I experience the wonder of nature, Jesus is always beside me, whether on land or in the sea.
Even death and destruction hold no secrets from the LORD. How much more does he know the human heart! Proverbs 11:15 (NLT)
Gracious Lord, thank You for knowing every part of me. You know my name and every thought. Teach me to be more open to You. AMEN.