by Victoria Heinecke

Finding our comfort in the arms of God.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“God is our refuge and strength,
    an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,“
Psalm 46:1-2a New International Version

Mouse had an anxious experience staying at my house. He hid under a bed most of the day, then lost himself in our basement. It took us hours to find him; he wouldn’t answer to his name, even when his human called for him. It terrified him to be in an unfamiliar house.

His anxiety has its roots. As a kitten, his riverside nest was flooded in a storm, and he was the only one of his litter to survive. When my son’s girlfriend discovered him, wet and shivering among his litter mates’ bodies, she waited for his mother. When it was apparent he’d been abandoned, she took him to her home. He is safe and wants for nothing, but he is still easily alarmed.

Among familiar surroundings and people, he is more relaxed. In the crook of my son’s arm, he appears at ease.

Traumas, life changes and grief can cause anxiety in people as well. As we process our unique events and gain insight, we can eventually learn to live with the aftermath of the event. The support of loved ones and community resources can help bring stability and a sense of safety.

Throughout history, people have called on God to rescue them from overwhelming troubles and disasters. On a more intimate level, we can always call on God in prayer to help us get through our day.

“I call on you, my God, for you will answer me;
    turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.
Show me the wonders of your great love,
    you who save by your right hand
    those who take refuge in you from their foes.
Keep me as the apple of your eye;
    hide me in the shadow of your wings“
Psalm 17:6-8 New International Version

God always hears our prayers, not because we are worthy or deserving, but because he loves us beyond what we can fathom. May that assurance provide peace during your trials.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado