Monday, March 8, 2010

Swimming with Sea Turtles




The water was crystal clear. A beautiful blue-green color. Amazing sea-life teemed just below the surface. We donned our snorkel gear and slipped into the sheltered cove.



Floating on the surface of the water, we peered to the right and to the left. There were tropical fish everywhere. Some large and colorful. Others monochromatic and slender. When combined with the brightly colored coral, 'other-worldly' was the description that came to mind. The beauty that surrounded us was simply amazing. The fish were absolutely spectacular. But they were merely an added bonus. We had been told that this was the spot to see some phenomenal sea-dwellers. After several minutes of patiently searching, we saw them.



Sea turtles. Dubbed 'honu' by the Hawaiians, these majestic creatures were swimming up from the ocean floor for a breath of fresh air. It was all I could do to steady my disposable, underwater camera for a shot of these incredible animals. Swimming effortlessly through the water, these enormous reptiles were not the least bit shy. Used to the many snorkelers exploring their habitat, they would swim within a few feet of us. Our patience paid off, not only did we spot the sea turtles, we were also able to swim with them. What an unforgettable experience!



Creation is a megaphone of sorts, that calls attention to the glory of God. The book of Revelation is quick to proclaim, "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created" (Revelation 4:11, KJV). The beauty and majesty of the Hawaiian cove we explored at Napili Point was as close to 'perfection' as anything I could remember. It reminded me of the perfection of God's Word.




David outlines God's perfect word in the nineteenth Psalm, "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether" (7-9). What rich reward is promised for those who hunger and thirst after His Word, "More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb" (Psalm 19:10)!



Having the opportunity to swim with some of the sea creatures God has created was truly sensational, but dulls in comparison to learning at the feet of my Lord and Master, Jesus Christ. My God is alive and active and is described as "a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6b). Imagine being rewarded by the God of the universe! Being invited to know Him more! If you're adventurous, and looking for an unforgettable experience, dive into the pages of God's Word and get to know your Creator!



Has God used His creation to draw your attention to Him? I'd love to hear about it!

12 comments:

  1. God does extend a excellent invitation to delve into His Word. Rich with comfort, and direction. Full of wonder.

    Our mission ladies are working hard to incorporate a set amount of biblical study in our day to day and report back on what God is speaking to us in our efforts.

    Like a deer that panteth by the stream so my soul longs after thee...

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  2. Hi Maria -

    I've never been in the natural habitat of tropical fish, but admired them in aquariums. If things are so beautiful now after the fall of man, can you imagine how it was before?

    Blessings,
    Susan :)

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  3. One day I hope God sends me to Hawaii! I'm so glad you got to go. I love marveling in his creation anywhere--especially in an incredible tropical setting!

    I'm such a nature person. That's my biggest way to spend time with Him.

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  4. Maria,
    This post brings back sweet memories, both of Hawaii (honeymoon) and a trip to the Caribbean (family). We did both snorkeling and scuba diving. I marvel how God placed such majesty deep in the ocean for no one but Him to enjoy.

    On a side note, I saw your article titled "Beauty from Within", but the link doesn't bring me to the article. I am speaking on "From the Inside Out" at a Ladies retreat in April, and I'd love to provide your article as a handout.

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  5. Maria what an awesome experience. Just to see a perfect blue sky is so amazing to me. WHen I look at the trees as they are now so bare and then in a few weeks absolutely blooming, O I just love Jesus so much more.
    I am so hungry for the word of God and the things of God it is really overwhelming to me. Some days I feel like I wouldn't go to work, I just want to drink from God's word all day long. It means so much to me I can't adequately express it.

    Blessings,
    Vickie

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  6. What an incredible experience! Your trip sounds like it was amazing:) I like the analogy you used too.
    Blessings,
    Karen :)

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  7. Over and over again, I stand in awe of HIS wondrous creation.
    Blessings, andrea

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  8. Gorgeous! I wish I could have been there. You described it so well, I might have been!

    Every time I look at the sky, I'm drawn to His awesome power.

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  9. Wow! That would have been just amazing to see! Lately, the things in creation that turn my praise toward God are watching the snow slowly melt away and seeing the sun shine a bit brighter and warmer each day.

    I'm glad to have found you via God Speaks Today. :)

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  10. Just found you on today's link from God Speaks Today. Didn't know I'd find you in Hawaii.

    I just read this morning . . . The heavens declare the glory of God and want to do a post on that with the beautiful view of Lake Washington out my living room window.

    We have been intentional about noticing the beauty of nature around us. I often comment on the clouds and sky and my husband comments on the lake.

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  11. We had a similar experience in The Virgin Islands on our honeymoon. I don't know I've ever seen anything so breathtaking in my life. God's creation screams of His glory. And to think THAT God is the one who rewards us...whoa.

    Great post!!!

    Thanks for finding me and for linking up. I've really enjoyed all your comments on my blog.

    Love,
    Sandy

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  12. It was nice to find you on God Speaks Today. Thank you for this post. You painted a beautiful picture of the sea creatures as well as learning at the feet of Jesus, the Creator! What an awesome opportunity we have to Know Him More!

    Blessings to you and your family!

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