While on a recent morning run, I noticed a large shell I hadn't seen before. I picked it up, carried it home, and set it on the kitchen counter. Each time I made a meal or washed dishes, I saw it.
One day, the top separated from the shell. I got tired of having the shell on my counter and threw it away.
Later, I remembered how the two halves had separated, and it reminded me of John 15:5 when Jesus tells the disciples:
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
The shell was a reminder to stay connected to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. I was disappointed I’d thrown it away, and the visual reminder it provided. So the next Saturday, when I ran that route, I kept my eyes out for another shell.
The top almost completely covered the first one I saw, and I moved past it, thinking, “It won’t separate and be the reminder I’m looking for.” I picked up two other shells and then realized the first one I’d passed was a different reminder. I thought, “Shouldn’t I seek God’s protection so much that I’m wrapped so tight in his embrace I can’t fall out?” I went back and picked up that first shell.
Many passages in the Bible tell us God is our refuge and protector. Below are just a few examples:
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1
My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. 2 Samuel 22:3-4
You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance. Psalm 32:7
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalm 91:1-4
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you. Psalm 5:11
That shell has been a wonderful reminder to me. I took the mostly covered one and set it on my desk, where I spend the majority of my time, so I can look at it often. I think of it and imagine God’s protection surrounding me and being held in his mighty embrace. Picturing that, feeling that, brings me reassurance and comfort.
Dear God,
Thank you for the things you put in our path that remind us of your Word and to draw near to you. Thank you for being our safe place of refuge and support. May we always stop to feel your loving embrace. Amen
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