“The LORD is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1

           Surrounded by a dreary haze, I falter. But what is that to you who emanates incandescent light, luminous and lasting? Black mists disintegrate in your brilliant glow; you overtake and overturn the dread of darkened places. Light of the World, you force nightfall to flee far off. Evidently, when I am surrounded by your presence, daylight shines through.

Sinking, I reach for your extended right hand. The waters submerge with savage force bent on suffocating. But you are Rescuer, pulling me out to stand on sturdy rock that will not shake or fold. You cradle my exhausted frame; hidden within the protection of your arms I am safe from harm.

Fears approach to bully me with derogatory taunts and menacing glares. Fists are pressed into my chest and blinders mask my eyes. But you intercede and mediate with words like steel that counteract their insults. “Courage, Child,” you say, in a hundred different ways. Your Spirit breathes and brandishes unseen weaponry for the fight. Your voice supersedes and fears scatter in retreat. I wait and watch you work it all out for great good. The scariest places are still yours to command.

Slipping fast, I stumble near jagged cliffs. But you are the guardrail and sturdy fence that will not give hold. You are my harness, strong rope and safety net. You navigate the precipice; I hold to your saving grace and draw breath anew.

Adversaries in enemy attire block my path, threatening to assail and overwhelm. But you cause them to stumble and fall in a foolish heap; bending your bow you chase them off the field. You are front line defense and rear guard; I pass through.

In response, I sing. Free from the restraint of despair, my strengthened soul leans into you. I am made aware of your peace in the midst of this chorus of praise. Beloved God, you rescue and save. Shouts of deliverance ring out loud and clear.

“And now my head shall be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD” (Psalm 27:6).

Elizabeth A. Mitchell