Laura is a Category 4 hurricane that is forecasted to hit the Texas and Louisiana border late tonight (Wednesday) / early tomorrow morning (Thursday). In order to survive, people need to take shelter from the storm surge and damaging winds that are expected to batter the region.
As I sit down to write this post, I’m tired. Since tropical storm Isaias headed up the east coast almost 3 weeks ago, I haven’t taken a break from storm planning. Following the path of the storms and trying to figure out how we safely get people and the equipment they need to assist those impacted by the storm has been all consuming. My employer deploys thousands of people to respond to people’s needs, IF they have a an in-force insurance policy with us and IF the policy covers the specific damages they’ve experienced.
I’m not anywhere near the path of hurricane Laura, but I feel like I’m in a storm nonetheless. The craziness of hurricane-wildfire season, starting a new school year that changed from partially in person to all remote at the very last minute, having to answer a health questionnaire before I can do anything, having to wear a mask everywhere and trying to remodel a house while we’re living in it, is nuts. Can you relate? I could use a shelter from this craziness.
If you haven’t guessed, the attribute of God we are studying today is shelter.
In the shelter of your presence you hide them from all human intrigues; you keep them safe in your dwelling from accusing tongues (Psalm 31:20).
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1).
God can be our shelter from the storms of life. He gives us rest, keeps us safe, and offers us hope for a better tomorrow. Unlike insurance, God’s help is open to everyone. You aren’t required to have a in-force insurance policy that covers the specific challenges you’re going through. Rather, all you have to do is ask for his help.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).