Thursday, May 20, 2010

Shadow Contentment

In the shadow of your wings I will take refuge,
till the storms of destruction pass by.

Psalm 57:1b

I am claustrophobic. Whether it’s a tight space or a tight embrace my breath quickens as I struggle for freedom. It’s probably one of the reasons why I love the image of being in the shadow of God’s protective wing. I want to feel secure not claustrophobic.

Standing in shadows isn’t a suffocating experience. Instead, one finds relief from heat, the wind, the rain while at the same time keeping the ability to be mobile, with a view of what’s happening. If I am to learn from experience, it’s I want to see what I’m facing. Locking myself away or closing my eyes doesn’t help prepare me for anything.

When I’m facing storms of destruction God spreads out his wing of protection. He provides the shadow that reminds me of his presence while providing a “safe” space to learn and grow from the experience. It’s all part of growing up in Christ. If I want to be a Jesus follower that is mature and strong I will need to find contentment in the shadow of God’s wing.

Now, I have to be honest, an embrace is wonderful. But, if I am going to become strong as a result of my “storms”, taking refuge in God’s shadow will give me the comfort I need while at the same time giving me a view of the upcoming lesson.

Father, thank you for your wing shadow of protection.
It reminds me that nothing can truly harm me
and that this present storm
is yet another part of my becoming more content.
Amen.

1 comment:

full of hope said...

Today's blog is particularly timely, after receiving an alarming phone call last night that may change our plans that we have so prayerfully been considering. I am sitting here picturing the Lord's shadow over us and relishing what that means. The arrival of this blog today, emphasizes His protection over us.
"Thank you Lord, for using Valerie to remind me of the safety and refuge of the shadow of your wings!"