The Peace of the Quiet Pew

I find something sacred about entering a darkened chapel, hearing the floorboards creak as I carefully walk down the aisle, and sitting quietly on an old wooden pew. As my eyes adjust to the dim light and I find a comfortable position on the well-worn surface of the seat, I am transported into the presence of God. He is there waiting for me. Words fail me as I sit in His presence, yet He knows my heart. God sees each frustration and wound. When I am hurt by those I trust, He reminds me that He alone is my refuge. As I battle with fear and insecurity, God is the rock on which I stand. He holds me in His loving embrace and I will not be shaken.

I recall a memory of a special, quiet place. Thousand Pines, the camp I attended in high school had a small prayer chapel, the McKee Chapel. There were journals where I would write my thoughts and decisions. It was poignant to look back and revisit the journals from previous camp years and see where God had worked in my life. My heavenly Father was always, and continues to be, my rock, my salvation, and my fortress.

Quiet, peaceful places are a rare find these days. I am grateful when I find the peace of a quiet pew, where God meets me with gentle tenderness. A place where I feel His presence and hear His voice so clearly.

Let all that I am wait quietly before God,
    for my hope is in him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation,
    my fortress where I will not be shaken.
My victory and honor come from God alone.
    He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me.
O my people, trust in him at all times.
    Pour out your heart to him,
    for God is our refuge.  – Psalm 62:5-8 (NLT)