SIMPLY SATURDAY TRIVIA: Take the Plunge

Recently, I read the bizarre account of Lake Natron in northern Tanzania. This terrifying lake turns to stone all birds and animals that immerse themselves or are unlucky enough to fall into its deceptive water. 

The lake takes its name from natron, a naturally occurring compound made  of sodium carbonate with a bit of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) from volcanic ash. Confused by the lake's deceitful, mirror-like surface, birds plunge into it, are immersed in the water, die and are calcified. 
 

 

Reading of Lake Natron reminds me of the story of Lot's wife in the book of Genesis. Reluctant to let go of the wealth and comfort she experienced in Sodom, she turned to look back at the smoldering evil city and was reduced to a pillar of salt. Today, a pillar of salt that is commercially named "Lot's wife" is located near the Dead Sea at Mount Sodom in Israel. 
 



"But Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt."
―Genesis 19:26, NIV 

 

Sin is deceptive. On the surface it looks appealing but within its depths lie inescapable heartache and pain. We cannot immerse ourselves in unrighteousness and expect to move forward with God. Looking back longingly at sin will invite defeat, result in a hardened heart and eventually lead to spiritual death.

Jesus Christ is our source of Living Water; one that cleanses and satisfies our souls. As we immerse ourselves in his love, he promises . . .

"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh" ―Ezekiel 36:26, NIV.

So, go ahead. Take the plunge. Never look back.