Looking out over the Gulf of Mexico, I'm reminded of a phrase from a song by Phillips, Craig & Dean ...

"How deep the Father's love for us, how vast beyond all measure"

How many of us dare to wade out into the surf, much less dive into the rolling waves of God's love? How many of us dare to leave our dry, somewhat comfortable beach chairs and towels to experience His love, and to love Him in return with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind?

Are you a bystander (in this case a sunbather) spending your time on the shore, near His love but unengaged in the ebb and flow of the tide, the challenge, and triumph of water sports? There's comfort in proximity to His love; but, there's exhilaration and eternal life IN His love.

Imagine the children that run full speed into the surf with reckless abandon. They enjoy jumping the waves as they swell, diving into the crashing waves as they meet the shore, and calling to their parents and friends to join them. They are not ashamed of the exuberance in their voice; they KNOW the rush they are experiencing.

Grab your friends and neighbors (you know which ones, the ones you love as you love yourself), hold their hands and jump into God's deep, vast love. Enjoy real, eternal life today!

Pray:

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.

Supplication: Petition God for wisdom. Offer prayers for your activities for this day and any special concerns you might have. Intercede for your immediate family and other relatives regarding their spiritual, emotional, and physical needs.