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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: A MIGHTY FORTRESS (don't write about the song) (04/23/15)
Our Shelter



“What?” my wife asked in shock. Fear and disbelief immediately registered on her face. I reached for her hand but she pulled away.

“What are you saying?” Her voice trembled.

“We received notice. We have one month to leave our home, then it goes to a bank auction. Diane, I am so sorry. Please....listen. I know its my fault.”

I could not look up, even as I pleaded. I wore my shame like a wet shirt. It clung to me and I couldn't change it. Guilt weighed on my chest and I felt as though I was suffocating.

I finally looked up to see Diane had sat down and held her head between her hands. Her shoulders shook, and I knew she was crying, but trying to hold herself together. The awful part was it really was my fault. I went from job to job over the past two years looking for the next best thing, trying to find the gold at the end of the rainbow.

“Diane, I know I have messed things up. Especially now with the new baby. I want you to know I will make it right. I will find a good job and stick with it.”

I meant every word I said. I was terribly afraid she would walk out on me and never return. I didn't know what else to say so I headed for the door to look for work.

“Adam,” Diane spoke quietly and stopped me. “Wait.”

I turned and she was right there, embracing me. I began to weep. She had tears flowing down her face and we just stood there holding each other. It strengthened me beyond words.

“Thank you, Diane.” I looked into her eyes. Somehow she still believed in me.

“Adam, God is our strength. He will not be shaken, even if our ground shakes from under us. Remember what Pastor Phil talked about last Sunday? Stay in Jesus, no matter what happens. In the storm, He is our shelter.” Diane spoke through her tears.

She gave me a little smile and I kissed her tears. Sometimes a look can say volumes. I left to find work knowing she would be there when I returned.

~ ~ ~

Three weeks later I hadn't been able to find anything for work, and the stress was palpable. Diane had been staying home to take care of our baby and had not been working either. We had no family and had no choice but to head to a homeless shelter for a few days. I wanted to bury my head under a blanket like a kid and pretend I was somewhere else.

As we were loading up our last bags, a neighbor came over to chit chat with Diane. I heard Diane's response that yes, it was sad, and yes, it was hard, but we were in the shelter of the Most High, and no matter where we were, God was still Lord of our lives.

I loved her for it. Once again her faith and trust bolstered me up and some of that shame fell off.

As we headed out I turned to my wife and asked her. “Did you really mean all you said back there?” I needed to know.

Diane looked at me and smiled. Peace had definitely taken the place of fear.

“Yes, every word of it. Have you noticed the name of the shelter we are going to?” She asked.

“No, not really. I just assumed it was the homeless shelter.”

“No,” she answered. “The name is Our Shelter. It's run by a few of the christian churches in the area, and it houses over 150 people, including families. They gave it that name as a reminder that our shelter is the Lord. What a wonderful thing to do, even the name points to Jesus.” Her voice was light and joy filled. “Also, they offer bible studies, prayer meetings, and they have classes to retrain people and help them get into new careers!”




~ ~ ~
Hope definitely greeted me at the door of Our Shelter. Three months later, I am well on my way through a training course that will enable me to facilitate what others need as they come in. We may move out of here in the near future, but we will never leave the shelter of the Most High.



~ ~ ~ ~
Authors note:
Dedicated to Pastor Berry and all those who pour themselves out at the Trinity Homeless Shelter in Central Maine. And to all those whose lives point the way to Jesus, our Mighty Fortress. Thank you!
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This article has been read 710 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
C D Swanson 
04/30/15
Beautiful and inspiring story. Well done.

God bless~
Hannah Gaudette
05/01/15
This is a story that should inspire all of us to remember that God is Our Shelter during times of despair. Well-written and nails the topic. Good job.
Loni Bowden-Horn 
05/01/15
This is a very moving story about the kindness and forgiveness. You and your wife honored your vows to each other. I am thrilled that you found job skills and you can meet with others for bible study.
Teresa Crumpton 
05/01/15
Thank you for sharing this story. I was totally engrossed in your journey. It makes me want to beg the Lord to show me where I can work, what I could possibly accomplish. Nice job.
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
05/07/15
Congratulations on ranking 6th in your level! The highest rankings can be found on the message boards.