Refuge

It began with a typical rainy season thunder storm which deceives by starting slowly but then suddenly pouring water from the heavens. After running outside to rescue shoes from drowning, I stood on our porch as the water cascaded down so close yet not touching me. And in that moment I thought, "This is it...this is what it feels like to be secure, perfectly content, and peaceful in the shelter of His wings." Gazing out into the storm that embodied both danger and life realizing that life's storms are quite similar. In life sometimes, I feel very much caught in a raging storm out from under the safety of my porch. All the while not realizing that I have the choice to step from the deluge into the refuge of the Lord. Sometimes, I focus on the wind whipping the trees to and fro and don't notice the light blue in the distance promising sunshine once again. Actual rain brings life to thirsty creatures, growth to miles of rice fields, and for a little while relief from the heat. Spiritual rainstorms also bring life to thirsty souls and grow faith and trust in the Lord.

~Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge until destruction passes by. ~ Psalm 57:1