Okay, this may sound a little weird but I must say that I am very comfortable on a dark street at night….alone. Sounds a little dark and maybe creepy, but it’s true. I find that I feel close to God and am in a more vulnerable spot. My best ideas come at this time and I can hear more clearly what it is He wants of me. I guess this isn’t too crazy as Paul had visions at night and so did Jesus. For me nightime brings contemplation.
The other night when I happened to be out, I realized how much I love my shadow…..I really do. I would say that I like it more then my reflection. My shadow is always with me, unlike my reflection; it is flawless without blemishes or scars. My shadow is very steady in it’s emotions. Its face doesn’t reveal to me my disappointment or whatever other emotions are going on. My shadow even looks a couple pounds lighter and taller. My shadow is mine, no one else can have it or change it. I promise this blog isn’t really random, I think there is a point somewhere.
It seems like a lot of people I know are going through some really tough times: financial, illness, addiction, etc. Believers and non believers are hopeless and for some reason the holiday season brings it out even more. Where does our refuge come from? Is there really any hope? Psalm 57:1 seems to paint a comforting picture:
“…Of David. A miktam. When he had fled from Saul into the cave. Have mercy on me, Oh God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.”
Remember, David was in a cave amidst lions and yet he is finding comfort in a shadow. A shadow from his Savior. What lions are we amidst that we are crying out? Do we find comfort in a shadow, a shadow of hope, love, and mercy?
So, you see God is like our own shadow. He will never leave our side, he does not judge us, we can’t see disappointment on his face, and he is never changing. He is a part of us and we are a part of Him. I encourage myself and you to base your faith on something. When we are being persecuted and amidst lions, find strength in Him. Not the Him you are told about in church, etc; but something that you feel is real from God. A shadow, a vision, a warm feeling in your heart, etc. Hold on to that base and live your life around that. It makes it so much easier to fight off the beasts and everyday challenges.
