Carina Francke

Scripture: Matthew 23:37: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, murdering the prophets and stoning those who are sent to you! How often would I have gathered your children together as a mother fowl gathers her brood under her wings, and you refused!"

In yesterday's verse we learned how God describes His role as a father in terms of his love and care for man. He expands this image of parents in a family when he compares himself to a mother - what she does to make her children feel safe.

In Isaiah 66:13 Isaiah writes:“As one whom his mother comforts, so will I comfort you." If a mother comforts her child it entails more than, "Hush now, I am here; don't be afraid!" It is the mother's physical presence that makes the tears dry up. Her comforting voice calms the child and when she picks him up and holds him against her body, all fear and insecurity melts away.

We live in times of absent-present parents at home. Pressure from work, financial demands, worries and house chores take their toll - parents are physically present but their being human is preoccupied by insecurity, exhaustion and fear of tomorrow.  Homes are not safe houses anymore - they changed into places of misunderstandings, unhealthy relationships,emotional outbursts and physical violence. 

If you relate to this scenario you are in dire need to be comforted yourself. To you God says today, "I want to take you under my wings as a mother fowl gathers her brood under her wings. I have often tried to do that, but you did not want to. I want to take you under my wings."

In your arms, close to your heart is where your child feels most secure. God being with-you-and-in-you has the same effect on you. If you take refuge with Him and stay close to Him you can feel His heart beat and eventually yours will beat in sync with His.....but then you have to want to seek shelter with Him.

After you have answered His invitation, please seek the advice of a believing professional who can assist you on your road to healing.

Prayer: Father, in the rush of life I sometimes consciously or unconsciously run away from the safety of Your arms. In these times I tend to be scared and feel insecure.  Please remind me that You are still there, that You are my only safe house. Amen