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Devotional for April 19, 2020

A Special Hiding Place

 "The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." (Psalm 18:2)

 A bit of a personal note: one of the things I enjoy about living where I live is the proliferation of parks. There is one in particular within walking distance of my house, which also has a large fishing pond and a wooded picnic area. Occasionally, when I have time and the weather is nice, I will stroll down to that wooded area and spend some quiet time. There are also several Metroparks around the area, with hiking trails, where I have also spent time alone in prayer and to collect my thoughts. There is a Catholic retreat center less than half an hour from where I live which has a nature preserve and a hiking trail, where I have gone to explore. And then, there is the local art museum, as well as the Native American village museum, where I can go to get away and be alone. Again, all of these are places where I can go enjoy nature, and, at the same time, go to "hide" - to get away from things for a while, and spend time with God.

 It is good for all of us, at least every so often, to spend time alone. Not to be lonely, but to take time out from the busy obligations of everyday life and spend time with God. He is always there for us, whatever we are doing, wherever we are, yet in order for us to know He is with us, we occasionally need to take time out just to spend time with Him and be close to Him. It is easy for us to be overwhelmed with the hustle and bustle of life, especially when we have so many tasks and obligations competing for our time and attention, that we lose sight of what is really the most important. And God is not only the most important because He is God, but because He can handle everything which overwhelms us, as well as give us the strength to face the day-to-day routines.

 So, especially this Sunday, take time out even from the routine you have being at home. Take time out from your chores, even your time with others, and spend time with God. Bring your worries and anxieties to Him in prayer. Bring everything that you cannot resolve on your own to Him. Thank Him for bringing you through everything you have gone through so far. Thank Him for all the blessings He has given you. Ask for His help for your family members and friends. If the weather is favorable where you live, go for a walk or a hike. Or, spend time outside in your yard. Spend time with God today - He is always there for you.

 Dear God, thank you for being there for me at all times. Help me to find more times to take time out to spend with you. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

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