“How precious is thy loving-kindness, O God! So the sons of men take refuge under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou wilt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.” Psalm 36:7-9 (DBY)
Curtis looked across the lake. The surface glistened and sparkled like polished azure in the bright sunlight. As he looked, he realized that he could not see the other side. He tried to see the lake bottom. He could not.
As he wondered at the limitless expanse of water, his eyes adjusted and he saw himself. Yet, in his spirit, he knew that this reflection was what he would be without God. Here was someone with no fear of God, full of self-deceit and pride. Horrified, Curtis watched as his reflected self did disgusting things but exhibited no shame. And the words coming out of his mouth were not only profane, they were slick, crafty, and deceptive. Curtis realized that the person he was observing had a long time back stopped trying to live godly. Suddenly, the scene changed and Curtis watched as his reflected self sat up in his bed and devised evil plans. He chuckled as he planned. There was no aversion to his wickedness at all.
Curtis wanted to run and hide. He hated what he saw. Yet, he could not look away as his reflection faded and was replaced by the Cross of Calvary. His heart broke as he surveyed this incomprehensible sacrifice of love. Deep in his spirit, a still small voice spoke, “His love never ends. His faithfulness goes beyond the sky. He will preserve you. He is a safe haven of overflowing blessings and delights. Hiding in him brings complete satisfaction. He is the fountain of light and life. Looking into his fountain, you will understand your own life.”
Curtis sat up on the side of the bed. Fully awake, the vision still burned in his soul. He slid down to his knees and began to pray.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for Jesus Christ who gives me grace so that I am not a worker of iniquity. Deliver me from pride and wickedness.
O, God, keep my heart upright before you. Empower me to always continue in your love and righteousness. This I pray in Jesus, name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his refuge and hide ourselves in him,
Pastor Smith