“But whoever takes refuge in me shall possess the land and inherit my holy mountain.” Isaiah 57:13c (NRS)
All of us have fears. All of us trust in something (i.e. job, wealth, church, etc) or someone (i.e. Mom, Dad, spouse, etc). For most humans, it is difficult to realize that these are all limited in their ability to support us or deliver us from trouble.
Many people have had their jobs disappear overnight. Others have had their wealth become worthless in one day on Wall Street. And we cannot begin to count the churches, parents, and spouses that have failed people when they were needed most. What does one do when the wind carries away the foundations of trust and confidence?
Consider this. We should first acknowledge that our vanity deceived us. Then, we should find the rock of refuge. In today’s text, note the gracious invitation of the Almighty. “The person who takes refuge in me will possess the land and inherit my holy mountain.”
In this world, we may never possess much wealth nor inherit a great fortune, but when we place our trust in God, through Jesus Christ, we are assured of a place in the Father’s house. Possessions beyond our comprehension! Inheritance that will never lose its value! It is not an earthly, get-rich-quick-scheme, but it begins with taking refuge in God.
Dear Father, thank you for the peace of your grace and mercy. Forgive us our trespass of trusting in the wrong refuge. Grant us the fortitude and perseverance to continually take refuge in your Son Jesus Christ. This I pray in his name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his refuge and rest in his promise,