Room For More
In the past week, our deputation travels have taken us through Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and now into California. We've seen wonders of nature that words cannot describe. We've experienced mountains, deserts, lakes, and so many varieties of plant and animal life I can't count them all. But it seems like no matter where we go, there is one constant—cows. They're everywhere. Even in the long stretches of barren desert, road signs are warning of cow crossings, and sure enough, we spotted several on our drive.
Here's the funny (albeit wise) thing about cows in a hot climate—they seek shade. Most of the environments we've been in, however, don't offer much of that. There have been wide open pasture lands and miles of desert wasteland. There were bushes and briars and little shrubs called "trees" that stand no more than three feet tall. Not many trees, especially shade trees.
But when I did spot one, the sight was always the same. Multiple cows nestled in the shade of a single tree, and when I say "multiple," I mean, there was no social distancing going on. These cows were practically lying on top of each other so that they could get in the shade. But, here's what got me: no matter how many cows were crammed under one tree, I would always see two or three more making their way to that area and watch as the other cows made room for the newcomers. It was so interesting to watch and even more intriguing to meditate on.
The Bible teaches us that the Lord is our shade. He shelters us from the storms of life and protects us from the heat that life often throws our way. We can run to Him and find refuge anytime, anywhere. He's a good God and a good Father, and He offers His shade to any who will come.
But here's the best part: no matter how "full" it may look in the shadow of the Lord's arms, there's always room for more. You don't have to face the storm alone. You don't have to remain in the scorching heat. There's a refuge waiting for you, and there's plenty of room for you. Will you come?
“The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.”
“Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.”
“Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.”
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”
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