A Christian’s heavenly journey with his feet on the ground. Treasures shared that are discovered along the way.
Please note that this blog has now moved to: "Senior Eagle walking with Father"

Sunday, October 12, 2008

On Retreat - 2

It was the first day of my retreat and I decided there would be just enough time for a short walk before lunch. The sun had broken through the gathering storm clouds, so I decided this was my window of opportunity. The path was tree lined and led to a dramatic viewpoint on the clifftop. It was easy level walking, which I took at a slow pace, to give the opportunity for my thoughts to roam.

As often happens before going away on such events, things occur that seem sent to try and unseat me and threaten my peace. The days before we left home, I received two items of news that had the potential to threaten my health and finances. I had already 'processed' these with Father, but as I strolled along, admiring the beauty all around me, these troublesome thoughts started to surface again. I allowed myself to feel the emotions involved, my vulnerability, even anxiety and offered these feelings up to God.

As I was doing this, the sky darkened and the rain came down in sheets. I was nearly at the viewpoint by then and sought refuge in a stone shelter. This was a rugged solid structure built into the hillside with local stone. Not only did it keep me dry, but I reckoned I would be safe from lightening, thunderbolts and even be bomb-proof. I sat on the bench and leaned against the wall. I had a perfect view of the storm outside, but felt totally safe and secure. It was as if God was reminding me, that whatever happens in my life, so long as I put my trust in Him, I am completely protected and secure with Him.

The rain stopped as suddenly as it started and I went outside to look at the sea view. A large rainbow arced over the sea and stopped me in my tracks. Yet another reminder that Jesus is my hope and He will never ever let me down.

By the time I decided to photograph the rainbow - something I have never tried before - it had started to fade, but I think you get the picture.

"Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings" Psalm 17:8 New International Version

7 comments :

  1. Greg said...

    Thank you for that beautiful illustration of God's protection and love for us. He reminded me a while ago that since He is eternal and all-knowing, he's had all eternity to plan the perfect course of action for whatever issue I'm facing, at any given time. So I don't ever need to fret; all I need to do is trust in Him and follow Him.

  2. wayfarerjon said...

    You are right - trust and follow! I find that He leads us into situations that give us increasing opportunities for that divine security to be 'concreted' deep within us. Scary stuff?

  3. Gerry Hatrić said...

    Nice. I know we shouldn't use that word too much but it captures very well a general sense of affirmation. Where is this place?

  4. Lucinda said...

    You give me such inspiration that when I receive a comment from you it is like a big old cherry on top of the ice cream!! God bless you and the Beautiful Wife.

  5. duopastorale said...

    But the photo is beautiful! I know that place. I've never stayed but walked aliong that coastline. One day I will get there.

  6. wayfarerjon said...

    I assume you are referring to the photo in the post above, ie: "Retreat - 3" The place is beautiful and if you also mean the photo, that is a real compliment coming from you. Hope you do get there soon.

  7. Tamela's Place said...

    It looks and sounds like you are having a beautiful time in the Lord. What beautiful pictures the Lord is giving you.. God bless you