Our theme this year is called Wave of Love. Nick’s dad, Wes, got the name from John 3:16; “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.” We say this verse several times throughout the children’s program that we do at the schools. The whole family definitely has it memorized. Wes had a vision of a wave of love coming over us that we could ride or surf toward the shores of heaven, once we have Jesus in our hearts.

Imagine the ocean, leaning back and floating in the waves…. There is something exhilarating and frightening about nature, particularly where we are in Florida. You are never 100% sure there isn’t an alligator or bear right around the corner. We are at an RV park that is right on the edge of the everglades reserve.

 

DSC_5283-251As a family we have had the privilege to be able to go to the gulf, with only a 30 min drive, and float in the waves. They have a gentle rhythmic relaxing motion. Waves push you in a direction. On this particular day, we were getting slowly pushed toward the shore. If you are close to God, He too will push you in the direction that is best for your life. He directs our lives. He has a plan.  Jeremiah 29: 11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

The waves take you further than we could go ourselves. We had boogie boards at the beach. We tried and tried to jump on all of the small waves and ride them to shore. The waves weren’t as big as surfing waves, but they were big enough to push you to shore.

Waves are overwhelming. Could you imagine being in the middle of the ocean with the waves on a raft or a small canoe? It is a completely different thing to be overwhelmed by someone’s kindness or love.

When we got into our crash, with our RV, we didn’t have any belongings. We had to stop at Walmart on the way back from the hospital to get toothbrushes, toothpaste, brushes, deodorant, and pajamas for the night. Before that, we literally had the clothes on our backs: no car, no shelter, and no food. It was all gone in a moment. A family friend came over and brought the sweatshirts from her closet to keep us warm. I’m tearing up right now just thinking of it. A red fleece I still have, more for sentimental reasons, is laying right next to me. It was exactly what was needed right when I needed it.  It reminds me of the kindness of people. When we had nothing, we were still provided for because of someone’s kindness. I hope to be that to other people someday.

God’s love is overwhelming in a good way. The more you know God the more you are overwhelmed by His wave of love.

Teisha Signature (Color)

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