A glorious throne, exalted from the beginning, is the place of our sanctuary. (Jer. 17:12)

EVERY MONDAY MORNING the doorbell rang. Audrey walked in calling out, “Hello, anybody home?” Joan greeted her with a smile and a warm embrace. They walked into the dining room. Audrey placed her laptop on the table, and pulled out a chair to sit down. On the table was a pot of hot tea just for Audrey, who poured herself a cup. As Joan left the room she said, “Call me, if you need anything.”

Joan had learned Audrey lived in a home filled with conflict, abuse, and turmoil. The young student needed a quiet place to concentrate on her course work. After talking together, Joan opened her home to Audrey. They agreed she would come every Monday. Those days were spent in study and class preparation. It became a safe place of shelter and refuge, a true sanctuary. In that holy place, Audrey completed her studies, enabling her to graduate with honors. With the completion of her degree requirements, she felt confident about her future. Joan had opened more than her home to Audrey; she had opened her heart as well.

Find a sanctuary of safety and quiet, and seek the Lord today.

Viola Gommer and her husband live in Dallas, Pennsylvania. Their lives are enriched through family, church, community, and supporting world missions.

© 2016 Wesleyan Publishing House. All rights reserved.