Refuge of Grace

The summer air surrounds me like a light blanket, an earthy fragrance with a hint of moisture. The breezeless air stills the trees, as if frozen, begging for someone to notice their grandeur.

As the summer air swirls into my nose, I notice our garden. What started as tiny seeds dropped into the ground and covered with soil, has turned into plants climbing toward the sky. The frilled virescent green bean plants create a canopy for the crescent-moon beans—ready to be plucked, boiled, lightly buttered, salted, and enjoyed. Dusk caresses the world around me, preparing to bring a new sense of magic to the world. The didgeridoo sound of the cicadas accompanies the lowering lights, signaling the commencement of a magnificent production.

As the light dims, my eyes are drawn to a spark of yellow in the back corner of our yard. As quickly as it flashes, the mesmerizing glow disappears into the darkening sky. Then, another ember blazes beside our fence. The morse-code-like flashes beg my eyes to remain on the main stage of God’s beauty.

Firefly. Lightning bug. Glow fly. Moon bug. Golden Sparklers. It feels as if this whole prelude led to these little lights of wonder. As if through their blinks, God whispers, “Pay attention to the light, even with the encircling darkness. Gaze at the glow, precious child. Be transfixed on the light I provide. Let it guide you always.”

So, where do we find this light? In Psalm 119:105, the psalmist, who loved God’s Word, urges us to find His light in Scripture. This treasured verse reads,

Especially when lies and uncertainties entangle my mind, oh how I need the word of God lighting my way.

So, as I heave myself into bed, eyes puffy and heart heavy, I call to mind a favorite verse, bringing light into the dark night. Some nights it is just one word, “Shepherd” (Psalm 23:1 NIV) and other nights more words roll through my mind, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 NIV).

Just like fireflies, no matter how “little” the embers of God’s Word seem, they light up even the darkest night. Each blink reminding us light will always prevail. Let’s hold tightly to this hope, friend. Light always prevails.