The Beach Teacher

The shore is saturated with Christian symbolism. The water of the ocean or lake can remind us of our baptism and how this sacrament initiated our relationship with Christ. Shells, especially scallop shells, are also associated with the Sacrament of Baptism. Early Christians used these to pour water on the heads of those being baptized. The shell is also a symbol of the apostle, James the Greater. The fish has often been used to represent Christ. Ichthys (fish) was used as an acronym from the Greek meaning "Jesus Christ, Son of God Savior." Everywhere we look on the beach we find signs that remind us of our faith and of the presence of the Lord. These brief meditations open our eyes to the wonders that surround us when we are able to rest and relax on the sands along any shore.