But let those who take refuge in you be glad, let them sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous, you surround them with your favour as with a shield. Psalm 5:11-12
Seeking refuge – this is a term that holds deep meaning and when used resonates with something deep in our soul. It means to seek safety or protection from danger or harm. Currently in the world there seems to be no where for people so seek refuge from the virus that is spreading around the globe.
In the War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells, the Martians land on earth and proceed to conquer it, humans cannot beat or defeat their mighty machines of war. However it is the small microbes that eventually defeat them freeing the world from being totally devastated.
We currently face an ‘enemy’ that seems unstoppable and is so small we cannot see it and only know it has struck when symptoms of illness manifest and even those symptoms are changing. It is times like this that we need to turn to God and focus on Him. The Celtic Christians had a prayer of protection which I share with you:-
God to enfold me, God to surround me,
God in my speaking, God in my thinking,
God in my sleeping, God in my waking,
God in my watching, God in my hoping,
God in my life, God in my lips,
God in my soul, God in my heart,
God in my sufficing, God in my slumber,
God in min ever-living soul,
God in mine eternity.
Carmina Gaedelica
May God be with you today and guide your paths protecting you all from harm.
Godspeed
Rev Steve Neuhaus