My two-and-a-half-year-old granddaughter Ellie discovered her shadow recently and like any other child, she started playing games with it. She tried to run and catch it; she attempted to jump up and down on it; she even began talking to it as if it were another person. Her childlike innocence is a beautiful blessing to behold, and she even encouraged me to play games with my own shadow. I guess my neighbors thought I was being a silly old man with Ellie on my driveway, but her laughter and squeals of delight were wonderful, too.
I like today’s highlighted verse from Psalm 91 because of the comfort and assurance that resting in God’s shadow conveys. It makes me feel that God is mindful of all of us, joyfully watching over us like a parent or grandparent. I also feel, just like the psalmist before me, that there is a level of protection attached to God’s shadow which in today’s world, with its uncertain and chaotic ways, creates more confidence within me that no matter what is going on, God is always in control.
Perhaps you may be presently dealing with some uncertainty and anxiety in your own life. Maybe you’re fearful of the future and somewhat depressed by what we’re all dealing with these days. Perhaps you feel like giving up or are so worn down with worries about the world that your energy and focus is depleted. Please take time to rest in God’s shadow and receive it as a sanctuary or safe haven where you can renew your faith and refresh your weary soul.
Point to ponder: How overwhelmed am I with the world’s problems? Am I willing to let go of the things I cannot control and simply rest in God’s protective shadow?
Prayer: Lord God, You see and know everything. You love our world and all its people, so help us to remember that we are Yours forever. Whenever we are fearful, we ask You to remain faithful; whenever we are wearied with our worries, renew us with Your love. In Your Holy Name and under Your constant Shadow, we live and pray. Amen.
John Stuart is a Scottish Presbyterian pastor now living in Knoxville, Tennessee.
