This weekend tornadoes blew across the state and continued their destructive dance across the south. Many were hurt. Many lost their lives. Even more lost all their worldy belongings. My prayers are with them.
As for my family, we spent the evening glued to the TV, the laptop, and Twitter for updates – ready for the moment we should seek shelter. The storms were brewing and we needed a place to hide. As we waited for the “take cover” warning to fall, I couldn’t help but think of the parallel to life.
I’ve been in a whirlwind the last few years. You may have found yourself in one, too. Just like tornadoes, these storms of life seem to form on the sunniest days- without warning. For me in the midst of it, it was exhausting. At times, I will admit…I was very very scared. Scared of failing and scared of the next steps in life. Where does one find shelter in these times? In a busy calendar? In keeping up with the Jones family? ( By the way – who are these infamous Jones people?) In achievement at work? In shopping? In food? In your children?
When I was in 5th grade, I went to summer camp for the first time. I learned to sing songs to God that weren’t in a hymnal. Beautiful love songs. One – in particular – became my heart song. “You are my Hiding Place”. I never heard it anywhere except each summer at camp. Throughout the year I would sing it to myself- whenever I was afraid – afraid of not fitting in, not being perfect, not being loved, and when the clouds began to roll in. I must have sung it a million times in high school alone. I’ve spent my life finding refuge and strength in the words this song. (you can listen to Selah’s version by hitting the mini player above)
While the winds of my life have stilled for the moment, I know the storms will blow again. I will seek shelter. I will hide in the words of this song. To be honest – I sometimes take the long winding road to this refuge. But when I finally arrive, I always find God’s unfailing strength. You will too.
You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance – Psalms 32:7
by boots
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