Lent journey: STILL

You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas, who formed the mountains by Your power, having armed Yourself with strength, who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations.  Those living far away fear Your wonders; where morning dawns and evening fades You call forth songs of joy.  

Psalm 65:5-8

Personal reflections:  I stand in awe of the great power of our God and the beauty of His Creation all around me.  I've walked the beach many times in my life and each time I approach, whether walking up and over a sand dune or driving through one, I am leaning in and listening for that familiar sound....the roar of waves crashing onto the beach; hitting the beige gray sand.  I know the strength of the water's power; feel its undertow that pulls the sand out from under my bare feet...  Feel the mist, as water droplets are sent flying when water meets sand.  The ocean; the sea must be respected by all who enter into it for its power can overwhelm a mighty ship when it's angry during a storm.  Even on a calm day, dangers exist and its beauty quickly catches people off-guard.  Yet, the scriptures tell us that God's power is far greater; far greater indeed!  He can "still" the roaring of the seas.  Indeed, nothing can overtake God's power.  And, His great power causes His children to sing for joy...

This Psalm goes on to share more of who God is in verses 9-13:

You care for the land and water it; you enrich it abundantly.  The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so You have ordained it.  You drench its furrows and level its ridges; You soften it with showers and bless its crops.  You crown the year with Your bounty, and Your carts overflow with abundance.  The grasslands of the desert overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness.  The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled wit grain; they should for joy and sing.