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Psalm 31:1 NLT

'O Lord, I have come to you for protection; don’t let me be disgraced. Save me, for you do what is right.'

Some years ago I lead a retreat to Glendalough in County Wicklow, Ireland. It is renowned for a large Celtic monastic site that was founded in the sixth century by St Kevin. It is well worth a visit. Just inside the entrance etched into the wall are a Celtic cross and a large fixed ring. If someone fleeing from the authorities reached the monastery and grasped hold of this ring, then they could claim sanctuary, placing themselves under the authority of the monastery. They enjoyed freedom from secular prosecution for twelve months, over which time they determined if they would yield all of their life and property to God and take vows. If not, then they were handed back to the authorities.

Sanctuary is a metaphor for our own grasping hold of God and asking for both forgiveness and mercy. We are never freed from life’s difficulties, but know that God is faithful and will sustain us since we have yielded our lives and property to him. Sometimes the demands of life place choices before us. Will we continue with God, or take back control and take our chances in a turbulent world?

The psalmist speaks of seeking refuge (NIV). Just as someone sought sanctuary in the monastery, so we are placing all of our trust in the integrity and faithfulness of God. We have the power to yield, yet no power to influence the outcome. Our trust is based upon a promise, and promises are difficult to establish in law. A promise is always dependent upon someone keeping their word and can appear very insubstantial. Yet, promise is all we have in return for our commitment.

QUESTION: Have you taken refuge in God?

PRAYER: Lord, may my hope and trust be in you today.