Close To The Master

"What's the matter, Ben Nevis?" I really didn't expect an answer from the small white dog shivering on my kitchen floor, his black nose pointed into the corner. Prior to this, he'd been running about the house, looking out the patio doors, then dashing into the closets when the thunder claps became louder and louder. Several times, I'd tried to comfort him, but he kept running away. But by now, he was trembling so hard that he'd given up on hiding. As I bent over him, I remembered one other time that he'd shivered like this, right after he'd had surgery. That time he nearly went into shock. Quickly I found an old blanket and wrapped it tightly around him; then I picked him up in my arms and held his trembling body close to me until the storm passed by. Later that night, when it was time for bed, no matter how I coaxed him, Ben wouldn't stay in his own bed. Instead, he dashed under my bed where he parked for the night, close to his master.

As I turned out the light, I couldn't help but think how much my dog was acting like many of us do during the storms of life — running about aimlessly, worrying when the next clap of thunder or bolt of lightning is going to appear, working ourselves into such a frenzy that we become sick with worry. During these times, God, the protector of our souls, often tries to reach out to us and offer us comfort, but we refuse help until we are no longer able to function. But Scripture tells us that He is there to wrap us in His love and keep us close until the storm passes by. Like my dog who parked under my bed after the storm was over, we can continue to rest in His protection through the darkest night. All we have to do is stay close to our Master.

Psalm 5:11 – But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. (NIV)

Prayer: Lord, may we, like the psalmist, take refuge in You. Spread Your protection over us and keep us close to Your side. Amen.

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