When opportunities take us near the coastline, our family enjoys heading to the beach for some serious family time together. During these times, our usual schedule includes walking along the beach together to pick up interesting shell collections; and over the years we have been able to gather wonderful collections from several different beaches. We usually head out early in the morning or towards evening, trying to escape the intense heat (and potential sunburn) of the afternoon sun. Serious shell gatherers also come out before sunup, which is abnormally early for vacation spots, in order to gather all the good shells that have washed up overnight before anyone else wanders out.
As we stroll down the beach in search of our potential treasure, our eyes are alert to any hint or glimmer of a prospective shell. As the waves roll in, our eyes are even on the lookout for those shells coming in with the tide. Occasionally, we'll have to move quickly to keep from getting wet ourselves when an unexpectedly large wave approaches. Oftentimes, when a shell is carried by the waves, if you don't get it the first time, your opportunity may quickly vanish with the next crashing wave. Even in the midst of a wave, a rare find can quickly appear and disappear with the rush of water and sand, giving new meaning to the phrase, "now you see it, now you don't."
As I pondered the brief opportunities we had in snatching those incoming shells, the Holy Spirit seemed to remind me that His divine appointments are often similar. When the Lord brings someone into our lives, it may only be for a brief moment and then that opportunity is gone forever. As Christians and witnesses of the gospel, or "good news," we should follow the advice of Peter that he shared in 1 Peter 3:15, "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."
Just like shells that can quickly disappear, never to be found again, God may only allow us one brief opportunity to share the love of Jesus Christ with one who is lost, or hurting. May the Holy Spirit give us the boldness needed to take advantage of every opportunity He provides, in order to keep every person possible from becoming lost at sea.
