As we were driving along the highway I noticed a very peaceful scene. It was what I will call a meadow with old, established trees, green grass and cows. It took me back to a childhood memory of my great aunts home. She had a modest piece of land but I have a vivid memory of the meadow. You can picture it; lucious green grass, gently rolling hills and huge shade trees. She also had a few cows as I recall. For the scene to be complete there must have been a babbling brook and a tire swing nearby as well. When I think of that now I think of sitting under the tree with a good book or my journal, enjoying the quiet and solitude.
How wonderful it must feel for those cows to escape the heat of the sun by resting under a shade tree. The sun provides warmth and allows things to grow. But it can also be harsh, hot and burning. Having just gone through a round of skin cancer surgery, the shade is even more appealing. The shade provides protection from the harsh rays of the sun at mid-day.
The shade reminds me of God’s protection. Just like the sun is both beneficial and harmful, so is the world around us. We have loving relationships, health, plenty of food and, for some, the whole Norman Rockwell life at times. But we also have broken relationships, illnesses, financial struggles and times in our lives when we are tempted to despair. It is at those times that we can take shelter in the loving arms of our Father.
“How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abudance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light.” Psalm 36:7-9 ESV
If your life right now is anything but peaceful and tranquil, will you take refuge in the shadow of God’s wings? For it is only there that we can find true peace.
Have a great day!