My Mount Sinai

Not in the roll of thunder or the crashing wave, but in the gentle breeze and the still small voice, that's where I encounter God. In my seven years in Long Beach, I have had one place I go to in times of need, in times of praise, in times of solitude, and in times of reflection. A favorite place to encounter God through that still small voice and gentle breeze, my Mount Sinai. Although the city is bustling below me and there are many passersby on their daily workouts, on top of my Sinai, I found God.

My usual time of meditation begins with a run up the steep side of Signal Hill. Once to Panorama Ridge, I take a deep breath, feel the breeze on my face, and begin to pray. As I walk along the hilltop, I see the majesty of God in mountains, the awesomeness of God in the vast ocean, and the omnipresence of God through the urban sprawl of LA. In a city that seems so large, being able to see from the Pacific Ocean, to the San Bernardino Mountains, from Huntington Beach and the Port of LA to the Hollywood sign all in one place, makes us all seem so connected. I am reminded of my insignificance compared to God, but also my value in God's eyes as his beloved child.

Today as I wander this beautiful hilltop, I reflect on all the prayers, petitions, and praises that I have sent to God from this hillside. God has been so faithful to me over these last seven years. He brought a sheltered, shy girl to live in a big city all by herself. He blessed me with an apartment and many wonderful roommates and happy memories. Despite my fears of trusting, he gave me a church family that I truly love and who I know will continue to support me. In Long Beach, I have met many unique people and have had many experiences that opened my eyes to the world around me. So many firsts: from attending a public school, to partying with friends, to living on my own, to a first kiss, to traveling the world, to seeing real poverty and need, to getting married... the list goes on and on. I have grown in so many ways and I wouldn't be who I am today if it weren't for my time, experiences, and friends here in Long Beach. And at each of these turning points and new experiences, I met God here, on my Sinai. He heard my cries of loneliness and confusion, he rejoiced in my accomplishments and celebrations, and he continues to guide me step by step as he has through these last seven years.

As I run down from this hilltop today, it is very bittersweet. I have joy in all God has brought me through and faith that he will continue to guide me. I also have a sadness of heart with the realization that all too soon I will leave this behind. Yes there is excitement about the new things to come, but there are also uncertainties in the unknowns. No matter what, I know God will go with me even if my Sinai is miles away. Just as he guided the Israelites through the desert to a promised land, he will guide me through the unknowns along the path he has planned for me. I just pray that in the craziness of grad school that I will be able to find a new place where I can feel the gentle breeze, sense God's presence and hear that still, small voice. 

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For those I am leaving behind in Long Beach, I encourage you to visit my Mount Sinai (aka Signal Hill Park) and encounter God for yourself through the beauty of creation and his still, small voice. 

Also, I would love to hear about your Mt. Sinais - your places where you encounter God, so please share in the comments!