I am a Christian photographer who captures metaphors for God's Word in the beaches, cities, and nature around me. I am a humble Christ follower.

Modern culture loves to praise humanity for every scientific discovery, technological advancement, or inspiring work of art conceived. It is important to recognize and appreciate these feats, but often in our self-congratulations, we forget the One who actually gave us the wisdom, ingenuity, and creativity to accomplish anything in the first place. Years ago the Lord showed me not only the importance and value of humility in my life and in my relationship with Him, but also the freedom that stems from it. The mindset of humility is so essential, yet we live in an era where the opposite is glorified instead, much to our detriment. In pride, we deceive ourselves into thinking that we walk on air in the ornate shoes of kings. In humility, we remind ourselves that we're just walking barefoot by the seashore, and frankly, that's just where we would rather be. Looking around, we can be awed by the endless seascape horizon that we played no role in creating. We can marvel as waves defy gravity, swelling into powerful breakers where seconds ago the surface was flat. We can take note of small creatures that move about in the receding waters, living in ecosystems that seem oblivious to our presence. We feel invisible breezes rush past our noses, and see sand crystals cake on our feet that are simply too numerous to count. In humility, we enjoy the beautiful symphony of existence unfolding all around us. It is freeing, exhilarating, and tickles our senses, yet at the same time, it makes us keenly aware of our own fragility. Just one misstep, and broken shells, beached jellyfish, submerged holes, or the sharp pains of prideful carelessness can ruin the whole experience. When walking by the seashore, I am reminded not to trust in the one making footprints that disappear into wet sand. I am reminded to trust instead in the One who created everything, including me, and who holds the keys to a much greater world yet to come.

You too can be a humble Christ follower, regardless of who you are, what you have done, or where you have come from! One need not look far, whether in the big cities or remote rural outposts, to see that regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, economic status, or even religious background, all people need a Savior. Though some people strive for perfection, all will always fall short. Fortunately, our Father has seen to it that we don't need to be perfect; we need Jesus. While religion is about man trying to reach God, Christ is God reaching man. Christ died on a cross with all the weight of the past, present, and future sins of humanity on His sinless shoulders. Then, He rose from the dead, conquering death for all eternity. All men and women are broken, but if anyone confesses this brokenness, repents of all that makes him unworthy, and sincerely accepts Christ as Lord and Savior, then the gifts of salvation and eternal life will be his. Too often people find themselves playing games, hiding their true selves, or going through the motions of performing ritualistic "religious" behaviors with apathetic hearts. That said, Jesus already knows everything about every one of us. He created us. He knows our weaknesses, our failures, our temptations, and our insecurities. He sees us for who we really are, regardless of the masks we wear. No amount of money, no respectable status, no fancy clothing, and not even any kind of good works can fool Him. So, don't pretend to be a better version of yourself than you really are. Jesus doesn't pretend you are, but He already loves you and will meet you right where you are. He knows you better than you know yourself. He knocks on the door of your heart, but you have to let Him in. How do you do that? Sincerely pray the following sentiment to Him. The exact words are not as important as the sincerity of your prayer.

Lord Jesus,

I recognize that I need you in my life.

Thank you for accepting me just as I am.

I seek You and want to receive You as my personal Lord and Savior.

Please come into my heart, and forgive me for all my sins.

I belong to you.

Thank you, Jesus!

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up in honor." James 4:10 NLT