September 27, 2024
The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. ~ Psalm 18:2 NLT
Last weekend I facilitated a silent directed retreat for a friend at Mercy By the Sea Retreat Center on the shore of Long Island near Madison, CT. With art work decorating the walls throughout the retreat center, and stunning views of the sound to the east, a variety of trees from around the world, a labyrinth overlooking the sound, and rocking chairs and benches scattered over the grounds, it was a visual feast for the soul.
While walking along the beach, I was drawn to a massive rock with a pine tree and other plants growing out it. I wondered how it was able to take root and grow out of a fissure in the rock, battered by high winds, and subject to flooding at high tide. The pull of life, even in the hardest, most inhospitable place, a rock, overcame the circumstances.
I was reminded of a drawing (see below) I have in my home office. In 1995 I helped organize a retreat for survivors of sexual abuse with the Mennonite Central Committee Women’s Concerns Committee. We had over 100 people in attendance, with speakers from all over the USA, worship, workshops, and opportunities for artistic expression. The words have stuck with me, “My spirit was able to grow and blossom though there was little soil to take root.” ~ Sue Schlabach.
The Psalmist was right. God is our rock, our fortress, our savior, our shield, the power that saves us, and our place of safety. Cling to the Lord. ~ Anne
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