[And] Let your patience [perserverance; endurance] show itself perfectly in what you do [have its full effect; finish its work]. Then you will be perfect and complete [mature and whole; or completely mature] and will have everything you need [lack nothing]. (James 1:4 EXB)
REFLECTION
During my Asian adventure, I landed in a place where the trees are perennially green and the flowers bloom, in harmony with a gentle sea breeze that constantly caresses sun soaked skin, courtesy of the tropical climate.
Situated at the southernmost tip of Hainan Island (in southern China), Sanya is at its core a resort city, but I would not describe it as laid-back. Generally, I found the locals to be extremely hardworking, even on a tropical island, and in Sanya it seemed they were hard at work on everything pertaining to tourism. During my time there, the sun was only occasionally interrupted by refreshing rain and the odd typhoon. Luxury hotels lined up along Yalong Bay, the busiest bay on the island, flush with every kind of beach activity imaginable. I spent a fair amount of time at Dadong Hai beach. I could keep my belongings in a locker, freeing me to frolic in the surf or stroll along the shoreline deep in thought, worry and weight free. I discovered secluded, untouched bays where one could snorkel freely and roam about in untouched nature, slathered with sunscreen. I always feel so connected to God when I’m fully immersed in His handiwork — there is an unseen natural rhythm and harmonious balance, a deeper beauty flowing beneath the surface of visual delights, filling my heart with profound hope in a Greater Good.
I found the abundance of natural beauty in Sanya —the breathtaking evidence of God’s handiwork —was in stark contrast to the jarring chaos that defined the CBD, where I worked. Sadly, most of the buildings were without the charm of yesteryear China. Most drivers communicated via their hooter and construction never ceased, creating a cacophony of sound beyond my current ability to describe. Perhaps I’m more noise sensitive than the average person. Thankfully headphones could drown out the chaos and soothed my nerves with uplifting music, and the relentless racket was a constant opportunity to let patience have its full effect.
PRAYER POEM: Your Will
Faithful Father, the blessed beauty of Your handiwork abounds ~ a reminder of Your infinite generosity and amazing grace that hovers high above cacophonous sounds, every person and place. Oh Holy One, align us with Your will, from the break of dawn to the setting sun… and beyond, as we learn to truly be still and adore You, now and forevermore.
