Sean Johnson - Intentionally - The Education of Sean Johnson

I saw Deep Blue last night. What an amazing movie…

I found myself confronted by a strange truth as I was enjoying this film. Watching what must represent some of the most jaw-dropping underwater footage ever recorded, I continually thought to myself, “Man, God is so amazing to have created all of this!”

This awe was tempered quickly by the realization that I was likely one of the only people in the theater sharing that thought. The thought that two people could watch the exact same thing and arrive at completely opposite conclusions made me strangly uneasy.

What is it that has caused us to consistently look for answers all these years? What evolutionary explanation is there for us probing the depths of the ocean to discover the strange and wonderous creatures lurking down there? Why do we care?

Is there some chance that such discoveries will lead to knowledge that could lead to greater health, wealth, prosperity, or survival? Perhaps. Do we have some biological mandate that causes us to risk life and limb for the sake of our descendants that such a discovery, however remote, would bring? Maybe.

I’m not sure if that explains the story, however. If so, what excuse is there for us to brave the harsh conditions and risk death to climb the tallest mountains? I don’t deny for a second that it’s thrilling, nor do I deny that there are parts of me that want to do the same (as it happens, I’m breathlessly anticipating the climb up relatively miniscule Mt. Katadhin in July.) But, if the law of the natural world is self-preservation in the interest of prolonging our species, why are we continually putting our lives in danger? Is our genetic wiring screwed up?

Or is it that long ago, an insatiable curiousity was placed in our hearts that causes us to traverse time and space in the interest of discovery? That strange euphoria we get when reaching the summit of a mountain or walking along the ocean’s bottom or simply sitting next to a small creek surrounded by Aspens turning a myriad of colors…are these fantastic feelings a part of our makeup on purpose?

If one wanted to get closer to their Creator - to appreciate and marvel at His power, to feel humbled at what He’s given them, to understand more fully how much He loves beauty and variety and creativity and excitement…what would you do? To what heights or depths would you go to experience His power and love, even if you didn’t fully realize this was what you were doing?

Perhaps all the way to the ocean’s floor.