Once when we lived in Florida, I was looking in the jobs available section. I stopped in my browsing when I saw the perfect job! LIGHT HOUSE CLEANING was listed. I didn’t like cleaning my own home, but to clean a lighthouse, that would be fun! But as I am sure you figured out quicker than I did, that space in the words light and house, made a big difference! I had blended them together in my mind and assumed I had found an unusual and exciting job! Although I did not call about the job, my love for lighthouses thankfully continued. For my birthday 5 years ago I asked my dad to take me to see lighthouses as a present. He loved the idea and a tradition started!
Each year we pick different lighthouses to visit and at least one to be able to climb to the top. I love hearing the history of the families that kept watch. While there have been towns that I did not like as much as others, I have loved all the lighthouses! And it was on our lighthouse trip this year that I realized that there are a few things I do no matter the height, outside appearance or location of the lighthouse.
I always take a picture of the door going in. This time one of the lighthouses was locked. I realized this after climbing the first 40 outdoor steps. So down I went to ask about how to get in. She handed me the keys and said to bring them back when we came back down. Not sure why I loved unlocking the door, but I did. Keys to the lighthouse! I guess going through the door symbolizes a start, a beginning. No matter how many doors I go through, I feel the same fresh start as I walk through each one.
The next thing I do is take a minute as I climb to look for the uniqueness of that lighthouse. I examine the walls, any signs, the steps, the view up and down. If I rush to the top and try to get there as fast as possible, I would miss so much. We all have that uniqueness and gifts that are God given. I think we can see that best in each other when we slow down. And if we don’t slow down voluntarily, I have realized God will help with that!
The last thing I do each time I climb has to do with when I get to the top. Such freedom in stepping through the hatch to get onto the balcony at the top of the lighthouse. Even if people are around you, it is peaceful. First, I stop and look out. I am just quiet. It is almost like the silence at the top is demanded for a moment. Then, I look down. That is amazing! I look for the shadow of the lighthouse and then at how small everything looks. But at the top of that lighthouse, I feel tall, because I feel I am on God’s shoulders! Listening as He whispers, “Be still and know that I am God”.
On these trips I am double blessed. I get to draw closer to my earthly father, and I also get to draw even closer to my heavenly Father!
Lord, I thank you that You teach us in so many different ways! I praise You for adventures! And most of all for Your word, that reminds us that in our stillness, we can know how amazing You are God!
