My Refuge, Sanctuary & Love

C D Swanson

Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast. Psalm 57 (KJV)

In the quiet of the morning, when the sun’s first rays kiss the dew-laden grass, there lays a refuge—a sacred place where the soul finds solace. 

It is the shadow of God’s wings, a shelter woven from grace and mercy. Psalm 57 paints this sanctuary with words that resonate across time and faiths, inviting us to seek refuge in the Divine embrace.

The psalmist pleads for mercy, not once but twice. 

“Be merciful unto me, O God,” they cry, their soul anchored in trust. 

In this plea, we find the essence of Christian values: humility, dependence, and unwavering faith. 

To seek God’s mercy is to acknowledge our frailty, our need for redemption. It is to recognize that our refuge lies not in our own strength but in the shadow of His wings.

As Christians, we are called to extend this mercy to others—to be channels of grace in a world parched by judgment. 

Our values are rooted in compassion, forgiveness, and love. 

We recognize that we, too, are wounded souls seeking shelter. 

When we show mercy, we mirror the heart of our Heavenly Father.

We too, face our lions—the doubts, fears, and uncertainties that prowl within. 

But like the psalmist, we can find refuge. 

We can choose to lift our eyes beyond the pitfall and fix them on the exalted God. 

Our reflective thoughts become prayers, whispered in the secret places of our souls. 

We cry out, “Awake, O glory! 

Awake, psaltery and harp!” 

Our worship becomes defiance against despair.

“Dear LORD, In the shadow of Your wings, we find safety. 

When calamities threaten to overwhelm us, be our refuge. 

As we cry out, may Your mercy descend like morning dew. 

Save us from reproach, O God most high. 

Let our hearts be fixed on You, unwavering. 

May our lives sing praises, even in the darkest hour, may we exalt Your name above the heavens, above all the earth — in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

C D Swanson writes for His Glory. Contact