I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed. (Psalm 57:1)As I write this, oil is spewing into the Gulf of Mexico from British Petroleum's Deepwater Horizon well. It's been leaking for over a month and no end is in sight. What started as a personal catastrophe for the families of the eleven men killed in the explosion now ranks as the world's worst man-made environmental disaster ever.
Disasters come in different forms. In addition to environmental disasters - both man-made and natural - there are international conflicts, financial blow-ups, relationship meltdowns and the list goes on. Illness and injury,violence and crime; none of us escapes disaster at some time or other in our lives.
David experienced more than his share of disaster. As a young man his king put a price on his head, forcing him to seek refuge with his enemies. Losing a battle with lust led to adultery and murder. His son, motivated by resentment, seized David's throne forcing him to run for his life yet again. His daughter was raped, his son was murdered, and another son died from illness in early childhood.
No doubt you've known disaster in your life too: investments crashing, retirement plans losing their value, children making bad choices, crime, accidents, or bad news from your doctor.
Today's reading holds two relevant promises: 1) During dark times we have a refuge; and 2) the disaster - whatever it is - will pass.
Do you need a refuge?
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