Where can I go from your Spirit?
Psalm 139
During the Second World War Darlene Deibler Rose was imprisoned by the Japanese in a concentration camp for her missionary work in the Dutch colonies of the Far East. While in the camp, her husband who was confined in a different camp perished. She with her other inmates endured unbelievable deprivation: starvation rations, brutal treatment, torture, and hard labor. Many of the women and children died. Nevertheless they endured the cross, despising the shame- but through it all they set a remarkable example of perseverance and even joy in the midst of great sorrow.
During one especially difficult time she was locked in solitary confinement for an extended period. She had been sentenced to death for her supposed “spy activity” for the imperialists. As she awaited her execution, she endured the extra burden of feeling all alone- and yet even then she testified to a remarkable sense of the Lord’s presence- even in that dark prison cell.
On one especially difficult night she heard a man singing outside her cell- “Precious name, O how sweet, Hope of earth and joy of Heaven…”- the words of one of her favorite gospel songs. She shimmied up onto her bed to try to peer into the court yard through the tiny window to see who was out there singing. To her surprise- she could see no one- and yet she had heard those words clear as a bell. She relayed in her book: “Listening to this hymn of hope and assurance coming from I knew not where, great awe filled my heart. Quietly I slipped to the floor and bathed my soul in the presence of my God.”
As we consider the omnipresence of God today, remember God is always with you- A strong tower and Rock- a constant companion – a faithful guide. He will support you no matter come what may.
Because of grace,
Tim
