“Wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord.” (Proverbs 1:7a CEB)

Our family recently enjoyed a few days away in Oceanside, CA. With three kids to keep an eye on, it was by no means one of those relax on the beach with an adult beverage vacations, but it was fun. On our last day, both Julie and I managed to steal away some time to tackle the waves with a pair of boogie boards.

There is a window of time in the late afternoon when the waves are big enough to carry you for a lengthy joyride, but not so big that they topple you off the board. I’ve had some experience with the latter, when the aggressive waves transform you into an underwater tumbleweed. It’s pretty scary.

The ocean is not to be underestimated. A lack of respect for its power can be fatal— but the ocean is also beautiful. The vastness of the sea points to the epic massiveness of creation. The rhythmic sound of crashing waves alleviates anxiety. A soak in the salty blue waters can even heal minor infections.

So when someone suggests we ought to have a healthy fear of the ocean it doesn’t mean we need to run away from it in terror. It means we need to be mindful of its power, realistic about our fragility, and humble in its presence. It is in this manner, with this type of respect, that Scripture tells us we must fear the Lord if we wish to be wise.

“Very early in the morning [Jesus] came to his disciples, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified and said, “It’s a ghost!” They were so frightened they screamed. Just then Jesus spoke to them, “Be encouraged! It’s me. Don’t be afraid.” (Mt 14:25-27)

The Lord is so awesome, so powerful, that witnessing an act of God can turn a person’s hair white. There is, however, something even more astonishing than God’s power— God’s love. The gospel of Jesus Christ includes the incredible news that God loved us so much, even in the midst of our sinfulness, that he sent his only son to bring eternal life to all who believe in him (Jn 3:16).

Recognizing who Jesus is turns terror into hope.

The last night of our vacation, as I drifted off to sleep, I could still see the waves. The magnificence of the ocean had made an imprint on my mind’s eye… I wonder if something similar would happen if I spent a whole day in the presence of Jesus.

Dear God, we are so small compared to you, and yet you love us and desire fellowship with us. Help us to avoid taking your incredible mercy for granted. Help us to recognize your son, Jesus, for who he is and follow him wherever he leads. Amen.