A recent “homeschool field-trip” to watch the cargo ships pass through the dam on the Arkansas River led to a walk down a rocky peninsula scattered with fishermen and surrounded by the loud waves the dam released.
When I closed my eyes, I almost felt as though I was at a sandy beach. My dream was quickly brought back to reality thanks to the possum sized mosquito that attacked my forehead.
As my kids made dirt castles and challenged each other to a rock-throwing contest, I was mesmerized by watching the men down the way tend to their fishing poles. They only moved when they had to check their poles, were far enough from each other preventing their lures from crossing paths, and the only communication exchanged was a head nod when someone brought in a fish, which I’m NOT confident actually occurred.
I’ve always (what’s the right word?) envied, respected, appreciated (yes, that’s the word) how men can stare at the water for hours while fishing.
My brother, an avid outdoorsman, has found solace and a closeness to God during his time hunting and fishing. He and I grew up with a great appreciation for the outdoors. However, I always needed a “task” while sitting on the deer stand: I colored, wrote letters, and fabricated many multi-colored potholders with my loom.
On the contrary, my brother would sit quietly and scan the dense woods for anything that moved. The only time he made a “peep” was when he accidentally sprayed doe pee in his face (note: this tactic was to lure the bucks). Peace and quiet…that’s how they (men) like it.
Jesus experienced many interactions with His disciples around the water.
Was it because He knew he could get their full attention? Or was it the peacefulness of the water which brought comfort to those around? Or maybe the water was a good subject for His parables?
My challenge is to find this peace, this stillness within my home. Will it be watering the grass, embracing the rain, running a bath of water, or heaven forbid doing the dishes? Whatever it is, ask God to use the water to soothe your soul.
