Where Waves Meet Prayers: My Annual Beach Retreat

My soul has always been drawn to the shoreline, where the rhythm of waves echoes the cadence of my prayers. After months of ministering to widows and cancer survivors—work that fills my spirit but can sometimes weigh heavy on my heart—I found myself driving toward the coast, Bible tucked in my tote bag alongside my journal.

The small beachfront cottage I rent has become my annual retreat, a place where I can both reflect and rejuvenate. As I settled into the weathered Adirondack chair on the porch, the salt-tinged breeze seemed to whisper passages of scripture back to me.

Each morning at dawn, I walk barefoot along the shore, my footprints tracing a path of purpose. Fellow early risers have come to recognize me—I’m that woman who often stops to pray over the horizon. Some approach me, sensing something in my presence, and before long, I find myself ministering even in my place of rest. God’s work truly never ceases, does it?

One morning, I encountered Sarah, a young widow visiting the beach for the first time since losing her husband. I invited her to walk with me, and as we collected shells together, I shared my own journey through grief and into purpose. By sunrise’s end, we stood ankle-deep in the gentle surf, hands clasped in prayer as my voice carried over the waves, speaking healing words that Sarah had been longing to hear. In that moment, I understood why God had called me to this specific stretch of sand on this specific morning.

In the evenings, I sit on my porch, watching families gather and children play. I reflect on how Philippians 4:13 manifests in my life—through my writing, my ministry, my battle with cancer, and yes, even through these peaceful moments of restoration by the sea. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” isn’t just about enduring hardship—it’s also about receiving the gifts of rest when they’re offered.

On my final day, before heading home to resume my work with Heels, Flats and Pearls, I gathered small stones from the beach. Each one will become a gift for the women in my ministry—tangible reminders that like the shores reshaped by endless waves, their lives too are being beautifully transformed through their challenges.

As I drove away from the coast, my spirit renewed and my purpose reaffirmed, I knew that these beach journeys are more than mere vacations—they are sacred appointments that enable me to continue pouring out hope to those who need it most.

How does your soul find renewal? I’d love to hear in the comments below.

With joy and purpose, Emma