We had a big earthquake a few nights ago that was the strongest I’ve ever felt. I was at home making dinner when my husband, my dog, and I heard the roar, and then felt the rumbling. The house shook, the ground lurched, and the walls creaked. My dog cowered, and my husband and I looked at each other wide-eyed. But after only a few seconds it was over. As far as we can tell, our home was undamaged, but I was literally shook up.

I consider myself a home-body. That means I love being at home. It is my safe place and refuge. I go out and do things and interact with people, but I always look forward to coming back home. I travel all over the world and enjoy all I see and do, but still, I can’t wait to get home again. My house, with my family and with my stuff, is where I feel comfortable, at peace, relaxed, safe.

But this earthquake made me contemplate how safe and secure my house really is.

Nothing in this world is actually safe. Nothing is strong enough or powerful enough or dependable enough to protect me from the unknown future. No amount of money, no nest egg or retirement account, can keep me warm and safe and dry. A sudden market change or world event could wipe it all away.

No building is strong enough, no security system is impregnable, no contingent of guards is incorruptible. The future is totally unknown. Anything could happen, like a global pandemic, a governmental or economical collapse, an earth-splitting meteor. I don’t want to sound overly dramatic, but it’s true. Only God knows.

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are protected.” (Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭10,‬ ‭CSB)‬‬

There is only one thing that I can absolutely put my trust in, now and forever, no matter what: God.

He has always been and will always be here. Everywhere. And He knows the future and has all the power. Nothing escapes His attention or is out of His ability to control.

When I am out in the world, He is the one I should be seeking to “come home to.” When I am scared or happy or worried or upset or excited, I should run, not walk or saunter, to Him for comfort, protection, encouragement, joy, guidance, and love. He will always be here.

Dear God, thank you for your constant presence and promise of protection. I know you won’t prevent me from experiencing life and the consequences of my own actions, but I know you are always with me and always love me. I trust that when I run to you with humility and repentance, you will always welcome me with your strong open arms.