I woke up this morning with an old southern spiritual on my mind: 

Oh, my loving brother, when the world’s on fire
Don’t you want God’s bosom to be your pillow
Tide me over in the Rock of Ages
Rock of Ages cleft for me
Oh, my loving sinner, when the world’s on fire
Don’t you want God’s bosom to be your pillow
Tide me over in the Rock of Ages
Rock of Ages cleft for me
Don’t you want to go to heaven when the world’s on fire
Don’t you want God’s bosom to be your pillow
Tide me over in the Rock of Ages
Rock of Ages cleft for me

Like most Negro spirituals, this one was written during the time of slavery, probably during the Civil War when the world did seem to be on fire.

What a comforting picture! When the world’s on fire we can rest on the pillow of God’s bosom.

Our world is on fire these days – physically, emotionally, politically and spiritually. Here in Southern California, we just have to step outside to be reminded of the physical fires. They’re burning all around us. The newspaper and TV news are filled with pictures and stories of emotional and political fires. 

By nature, I am not one to panic, but I must admit that recently I’ve had a few moments of panic over the conditions in our world. 

Like you, I need to find comfort and I find that in the Scripture. 

There are several passages in the Old Testament that paint this picture of safety. This one in Isaiah 40:10-11 is especially comforting. Isaiah is reminding his readers that, even though it’s hard to see at the moment, God is in control and He is coming back for His own to gather them to His bosom.

Behold, the Lord God shall come with a strong hand,
And His arm shall rule for Him;
Behold, His reward is with Him,
And His work before Him.
He will feed His flock like a shepherd;
He will gather the lambs with His arm,
And carry them in His bosom,
And gently lead those who are with young.

I remember as a child when I was hurt or afraid, I would run to my mother or father to find solace in their arms or on their lap—their bosom. 

Today, I run to my Heavenly Father for this place of peace and he holds me tight in His grip. 

The psalmist paints the same picture of this protection and comfort as being the “rock that is higher than I, the ‘Rock of Ages’”.

 From the end of the earth I will cry to You,
When my heart is overwhelmed;
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

For You have been a shelter for me,
A strong tower from the enemy.
I will abide in Your tabernacle forever;
I will trust in the shelter of Your wings. Selah

Psalm 61:2-4

There is no need to be afraid. God is our Rock, our Shelter, our Comforter, our Loving Father in whose bosom we can find rest and peace.

Recently, my grandson and great grandson reminded me of this image of God. What I love about this picture is that not only is Kallen resting on his father’s bosom, but his father, Benton, is holding on to him. He is secure. 

Are you resting in your Father today?

Judy Cocoris

Senior Ministry Coordinator

P.S. If you would like prayer for something, or simply would like to talk to someone during these unsettling days, I would love to do that for you.