The difference a few weeks can make. Kids were in school. Everyone who had work was still at work. Social distancing encouraged, but no states of emergency. But now, COVID-19 looms about like a dark cloud. People are dying. Is life as we know it unraveling?
Then with the psalmist let us cry out to God: “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” (Psalm 142:5)
A place of refuge is a safe place. It is a place where you seek protection from someone or something that may do you harm.
How do you make God your refuge? You cry out to Him. You tell out your troubles. The point being, God is present to listen to your cry and respond to your plea.
The problem arises for us in wavering trust. Running into a solid home during a snowstorm is easy to imagine, but feeling God’s presence during a pandemic – is a bit harder.
It’s not so much about our predicament, but our focus – and that’s the key. When our attention focuses upon Father God who made us, and Christ Jesus who redeems us – the anxiety and fear fades in comparison. God reveals His ever-presence.
And, if we are Jesus’ disciples, does that mean He will never lead us through difficult life events? Don’t bank on that kind of faith. What happened to the Twelve when facing a violent storm upon the Sea of Galilee? Terrified, they cried out to Jesus in their distress.
Jesus then stands up and tells the wind to be quiet. He tells waves to be still, and an amazing peace falls upon the water. In His rebuke the disciples learned a valuable truth; with Jesus in your boat you can face any storm.
Has your spirit grown faint? Are you troubled? Are you unsure of the future? To this Jesus said, “so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Amazing as to how Jesus said that before His passion. That storm was already brewing on the horizon. For Him it would be the storm of unimaginable suffering and death. But, before hand, He already proclaimed His victory over the darkness of sin and death for you and me.
Then, the refuge of your protection is so close to you. Jesus poured forth the Holy Spirit to breathe with intensity within you. No matter the circumstance. No matter your predicament, God has built a refuge within you, because the wind and the waves (and all viruses) still know the name of Jesus. •
— Pastor Neil Stern
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Leduc AB