Living Water by Dave Milton

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2

Surfing is portrayed as a paradise experience of perfect waves, perfect water conditions, and nothing but fun and excitement. There is something special when all the conditions come together and we get to enjoy a great surfing experience. What most people do not recognize is that wave riding is actually a very small part of the surfing experience. As an east coast surfer, I spend way more time paddling through whitewater than I do riding waves. Surfing involves great commitment, perseverance, energy, and endurance. But the
volumes of endurance and perseverance are all worthwhile when the right wave comes and we get to experience the joy of surfing. It is even better when we get to share that joy with our friends.

So it is with this adventure in faith. When we put our eternal trust in Jesus, he begins a work in our lives that culminates with the greatest experience ever designed for mankind…living eternally in the presence of God with those that have received the same gift of salvation. In the meantime, it will require
commitment, perseverance, focus, and endurance to keep our hearts, minds, and eyes on heaven. But, oh it will be so worth it. The real paradise experience awaits the Christian when this life is over…it starts with receiving God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, it continues as we walk with Jesus in this life, and it all comes together when we meet God face to face.

I pray that we will share in that joy together one day. In the meantime, persevere and endure…It will be worth it. 

Image: Camilla Monsen