Thoughts for the Day

In you, O Lord, I seek refuge;
do not let me ever be put to shame;
in your righteousness deliver me.
Incline your ear to me;
rescue me speedily.
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me.

You are indeed my rock and my fortress;
for your name's sake lead me and guide me,
take me out of the net that is hidden for me,
for you are my refuge.
Into your hand I commit my spirit;
you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.

(Church in Wales Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

When I was almost 12 years old we came back from Belgium to live live in England. My parents rented some downstairs rooms in a very large house in the open countryside in Hampshire. It was a child's paradise, with acres of ground leading onto forest-land. My brother and sister and I spent an awful lot of time up trees and generally running wild that summer.

But my bolt-hole to get away from the twins who were nearly three years younger than me was to go down the long driveway and climb up high into one of the large oak trees. There were many places to sit among its branches, and I could remain hidden for hours reading a book. Protected by its leaves, it was my refuge, at a time leading up to my Confirmation, when I was beginning to grow up, and wanted some solitude.

Psalm 31 shows David in need of a bolt-hole not to be alone, but because he is in danger. Notice his total confidence in God. His refuge, as well as ours in time of real need, is in God. It is God, our Heavenly Father, who can keep us safe and protect us.

Heavenly Father,
when life is hard
and danger threatens
from whatever quarter,
be our shelter and refuge
to protect us.
May we not forget to turn to you
and ask for help,
nor to thank you later.
Amen.