A lifetime ago, my older sister warned me not to take the shortcut through the park to our shared city apartment after dark. One night, I did cross the park and imagined someone following me. Fear pursued me as I rushed to escape with a prayer on my lips until I reached the lamplight again. I was also reminded of how I used to fold my hands in prayer as a child when I was afraid or worried.
Throughout my life, I have been reminded that God is with me at all times. What a gift to feel God’s love, especially in times of crisis. The psalms often start with someone in deep trouble who turns to God for help and conclude in thanksgiving and gratitude.
Whether the darkness is physical or emotional, within us or outside us, in the past, the present or the future, God will provide the refuge we long for and a time of rest and consolation. The Lord is with us always, so let us turn to God in prayer to acknowledge and connect to that power.
Comforting God, fill us with your reassuring presence and give us your peace. Amen. —