In this time of social distancing, there is one in my life who knows no boundaries. That, for me, is Leo. He is such a sweet dog and he requires close proximity at all times. If I get up to go to the bathroom, so does he. If he wants to go play outside, he needs me to go sit outside with him. When he sleeps, he sleeps as close to us as he possibly can – snuggled right up. There is no such as too close for him – only too far. At first, it drove me a little crazy. I felt like I couldn’t even breathe he was so close. But as time has gone on, it actually brings me comfort and joy to have him by my side.
As I read today’s scripture, I noticed the anguish expressed by the Psalmist. He is in agony – physically, mentally, and spiritually. Not only does his heart hurt, his body is wasting away right before him. He understands his sin has done some of this. And yet, he pleads to God to hear him, to rescue him, and to provide reprieve. This is not an unusual theme in the Psalms. What really spoke so loudly was his conclusion. He records, “O my God, do not be far from me” (vs 21). He is asking for God to be close. He wants the distance between them to be erased. He is confessing his sins in an effort to be cleansed. He is seeking the comfort and care of God, One who is closer than a brother. His plea is simple – be close to me. I hear he seeks God’s arms of protection, his wrap of refuge, and his outpouring of love. What a salve to a broken spirit! He wants God to be even closer than Leo is to me – and that’s really close.
What if we sought to experience God’s presence like this? How might our lives change if we wanted to be as close to God as Leo seeks to be with me? What if our desire was so strong we begged to just be close? We may find comfort. We may find peace. We may even find we are held in the arms of the Almighty. That seems like a good place to be.
Focus Scripture:
Psalm 38:21-22
21 Do not forsake me, O Lord;
O my God, do not be far from me;
22 make haste to help me,
O Lord, my salvation.
Photos included in Devotions are captured by David Cain – The Cain Gallery. Photos are available for sale by contacting The Cain Gallery
SEEING THE EXTRAORDINARY 