In a Time of Challenge to Feel God’s Embrace

An unusually heavy rain beat David’s roof. The world seemed transformed. Low clouds dissolved David’s white cottage and the orange stucco of his roof gave an appearance of a raft buffeted on waves by the wind.

From the sea like setting, the distinct staccato knock at the door was quickly differentiated from the roof’s pentameter sea rhythm by David.

That knock could have been none other than that by Amos. Amos, who owned the general store brought David his supplies, no matter what the weather, so that David could prepare for his day of rest.

Amos grew up with an aunt after his parents’ tragic passing when he was very young. David gave much thought to Amos who rescued himself by a deep faith from depression and despair.

David invited Amos for tea and Amos always accepted.

“Amos, what allows you to be so cheerful despite the weather?”

“David, with you I can share the reason. When I was a child both my parents hugged me at the same time from both sides. And I always remember the hug, day after day. It reminded me then, as it always does now, of Noah’s ark. They placed all their hopes in me; and always said, just as we are with you now, we will always be with you, protecting you.”

Amos, now prematurely grey at the temples, looked at David and said,” David, you, too, helped me, when you said to me that if I fall, it will be into God’s nest, embraced in his arms. Since that time David, I am no longer afraid, I feel God’s embrace and shelter.”

The rain continued as did their silence between the raindrops. David and Amos sat under the stucco roof, nestled in God’s embrace.