What I Have In Common With Those Seeking Shelter

This job I began in January is a good fit for me.

A number of times throughout the week we receive phone calls or people in our office asking for assistance or direction in finding shelter in this city.

Not long ago, that was my job, helping the homeless and those in need find hope, housing, and healing. Many of them also found Jesus in that process. It was a rewarding career of service, and God reminded me just this week He still has me in this precious line of work, not only serving and caring for others in the church and beyond, but also still, the homeless.

Those seeking shelter have a special place in my heart.

Homeless shelters in this city, however, are scarce, and fall short of the homeless population. Many homeless friends are left to fend for themselves as shelter beds in the area remain occupied on any given night. They find their own shelter–either on the streets, in abandoned buildings, or bounce from one friend’s home to another. It’s a disheartening situation. I can’t imagine being in their position. But, yet, in a way, I can.

No, I’m not homeless. But believe it or not, I’m not a whole lot different than those who have no home. Maybe that’s why my heart is drawn to these special people. We have a number of things in common. One is, we both desire a place to stay… to escape the elements of this world, to be safe, to find rest.

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will remain secure and rest in the shadow of the Almighty [whose power no enemy can withstand]. Psalm 91:1 AMP

Even though I have an earthly home, do I really have permanent and lasting shelter?

In the shelter of our God is found security, rest and peace.

It’s a place I long to linger. (Be encouraged by reading the rest of Psalm 91 here.)

God’s shelter is also a place of permanence. Unlike homeless shelters, God’s eternal shelter is fixed. It’s not a temporary place of residence. It’s a home that nothing can destroy. And, for those of us who follow Jesus, we know He’s preparing a place for us. Our eternal home.

And, the best news of all is this: Jesus is coming back to take us with Him! We will reside forever in His presence. Can you even imagine it all?? It gives me goosebumps!

Yes, the need of those seeking shelter in this city is beyond my grasp. However, it’s certainly not beyond God’s. And, for those of us seeking a more permanent shelter, we can trust God has us covered. For good.

God is so good to us, isn’t He? May we rest in His shelter today and every day.

God bless you, friend!

Julie

 

 

 

It’s gives me great joy to link this post with Suzie and friends for #livefreeThursday!