The Gazebo

The Gazebo. It’s been one of my favorite places since I first saw it in a photograph about 4 years ago. It belongs to my friends Carol and Eddie in Wisconsin. I finally experienced it in person a few weeks ago and it did not disappoint; it’s still one of my favorite places although I may not see it again for quite some time. The gazebo sits just a few yards behind a beautiful home resting on the top of a hill overlooking Lake Michigan. I walked out the back door of the house and headed toward the gazebo, treading on slats of wood painted a rustic red, my heart racing with anticipation as I neared the glass-paned door.

This was the place that captured my heart through a simple photograph. With its basic 8-sided design, paned windows on each wall, wood shake roof, and beautiful cupola topping this lovely structure, it felt like a sacred place, a sanctuary nestled among the trees in the yard and surrounded by the garden.

As I passed through the door my feet could feel the texture of the old wooden floor carefully laid out in an octagonal pattern, meeting in the center of the room in a symbol of strength and unity. The furniture in the gazebo was cozy and arranged to enhance the intimacy of the room. A simple loveseat and padded chair were fronted by a tapestry rug anchored with a glass topped coffee table. Along the sides of the room I saw wall heaters ready to heat this special space should the temperature drop below our comfort level.

This gazebo, this sacred place, is where I picture myself reading, writing, or just sitting quietly in the presence of the Lord. Looking out each window I could see God’s incredibly beautiful creation. Leaves were beginning to turn gold and red, flowers bowed their heads in a nod to the coming cold, the lake gently lapped at the shore ahead of the winter storms that would surely come. Seated comfortably on the loveseat I was overcome by the peace of God. I felt safe in this place, truly a sanctuary from outside influences and inner turmoil as I sat there silently. In quiet meditation this Bible verse infused my entire being:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. – John 14:27 (NIV)