Come Learn Rest Ministries

Yesterday morning, a stray dog showed up at my front door. I was already late for my first appointment of the day so I left in denial. That is, I left trying to convince myself that he wouldn’t be there when I returned.

At the end of a very long day, I arrived home hoping for the best.  However, strange cat cries coming from the tree near the garage warned me that a golden retriever was coming to greet me and not my cat.  Sometime during the day, April May had faced reality and sought shelter in branches higher than her enemy.

I cannot climb trees like my cat to escape my fears, but when I am fainthearted, especially at the end of a long day, I can seek God in prayer.

Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer;
from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I,
for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.
~Psalm 61:1-3

Since denial wasn’t working, I cried out to God for help finding the owner of this playful dog that was following me as though I was the one regularly feeding it. Eventually, my new best friend and I came upon some neighbors who knew another neighbor who actually would provide food and shelter for him for the night. I was so thankful to walk home alone, but April May wasn’t sure so she remained in her place of refuge.

When my husband came home, April May cried out to him.  He heard her, gently helped her down from the tree, and brought her into the house.  Likewise, at just the right time God gently invites you and I to leave behind our earthy fears and to live daily by faith in the Lord’s presence, our place of refuge.

Let me dwell in your tent forever!
Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings!
For you, O God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.
So will I ever sing praises to your name,
as I perform my vows day after day.
~Psalm 61:4-5, 8

Amen and amen!