by Desiree Bustamante

God is still present in the unexpected places of our life.

“Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, ‘Surely the Lord is in this place, and I wasn’t even aware of it!’”
Genesis 28:16 New Living Translation

In Genesis 28:16, Jacob awoke from his dream of a ladder reaching to heaven, with angels ascending and descending on it, and realized that God had been with him as he lay sleeping on the ground. What began as an ordinary night of rest during a long journey became a powerful encounter with the presence of God.

Some places are so beautiful and picturesque that it is easy to imagine God dwelling there and blessing all who live within them.

Yet there are other places in our world marked by suffering, conflict, and brokenness where it can be difficult to imagine God’s presence.

How often do we pause to consider the omnipresence of God in our own lives, especially in the places and circumstances where we least expect Him? We see the brokenness around us and feel the weight of a world in need of healing. We pray for God to come and restore the earth and mend our hearts.

Yet we often forget that He has already promised to be with us always, to the very end of the age. He is with us through the fires that consume forests, prairies, and homes, and He is the fire that burns within our hearts when we hear His Word. He is with us through unexpected changes in our lives, and He works within us to change our minds and hearts to be more like His. He is with us in our fears, teaching us reverence and trust to fear Him instead.

“Surely the Lord is in this place.” Not only in this place but everywhere we go, He is there! We can rest in that truth and find comfort in His tender care and unfailing love. He reigns over all things.

May this give you peace each day of your life.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado