The longing for the feeling of home has been present all my life. Home is comfort. It is safety. It is acceptance, belonging, and a feeling of being wanted. It is peace and rest. And most of all it is always there. Something that can be counted on.
I’ve found experiences of home in place, in people, even in stories. Of course, my home with my family is the greatest one of these. The settled presence in that home is slowly returning.
But all of these things are only a reflection. I found my thoughts lifted to the fulfillment of home recently.
I had no idea The pain would be this strong I had no idea The fight would last this long In my darkest fears The rights become the wrong
I am still running I am still running
Build me a home Inside your scars Build me a home Inside your song Build me a home Inside your open arms The only place I ever will belong
Jon Foreman
These lyrics encompassed my experience, and also drew my eyes beyond it. The never-ending fight is real. Pain beyond comprehension has been a companion far too much. Always running; that is often my version of living. Running in search of relief, peace, rest.
I think everyone has their own version of this in life. We’re all looking for home. We just need to remember that it has been right here all along.
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, βHe is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.β
* * *
He shall cover you with His feathers,
And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler.