Sometimes in hidden things, God reminds you of his glorious presence and promises.
One of my hobbies is metal detecting. This weekend we enjoyed a family weekend with our girls on the beach in Galveston. They like to sleep in. I like to get up and go metal detecting on the beach.
Most finds are coins, quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies along with scraps of aluminum, bottle caps and pull tabs. But once in awhile you find something interesting, unique and perhaps even valuable.
What made this weekend unique was a series of finds that reminded me of God’s promises. Jesus said in Mark 4:21 “Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its stand? 22 For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open.
Jesus spoke these words regarding his use of parables, but like parables bring hidden truths to light, so that which was hidden in the sand brought the promises of God to light.
Friday find: An Angel charm. Whether from a necklace or charm bracelet, the little angel was a great reminder of this promise: Psalm 91:11-12 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
Saturday find: A gold plated crown ring with gems (probably not diamonds). This was an exciting find as the glimmer of gold appeared in the scoop of sand. What a great reminder of how much more exciting will it be when the crown of life is placed on our head as a gift of God’s grace. 2 Timothy 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness,which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Sunday find: A crucifix pendant from a necklace (or perhaps a set of rosary beads). The crown we receive only comes through the sacrifice Christ made on the cross. He wore the crown of thorns so we might wear the crown of life! The only reason we have the ability to look forward to the glorious crown is because of the gory cross that Christ endured. Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
9 Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!
What maybe added to the irony/significance of this series of finds was the hole I dug after finding the cross wasn’t a strong signal, but I decided to dig it. What was in the hole: a bottle cap. Of the hundreds of beverages that have a metal screw off cap, this one said “Mike’s” (yes…an alcoholic drink – but that’s not the point!) It was like the message from the Lord was this.
The angels, the crown of life and the cross…all of it was for me. It is Mike’s.
These hidden treasures reminded me of God’s amazing grace and goodness. Never before have I found three significant finds that connect to the promises of God. The bottle cap with my name on it made it very personal.
Perhaps there is more God wants me to take away from him making these hidden things visible.
But I know what is concealed will be brought to the open.
I trust he will do the same for you.
Apply: Which of these finds/promises resonates most with you. Why?
Prayer: Lord, you love to make that which is hidden revealed. Open my eyes and heart to see the glorious promises of your truth so that none remain hidden. AMEN.