What a picture, Lord… a picture of YOU!
Skippy was inside our screened-in lanai. It was late. Dark outside. I had opened the door to bring her in for the night.
That’s when I heard the snarling.
A feral cat was outside the screened enclosure, just three feet away. Skippy was on the inside. Both cats were frozen in place, on high alert. Both cats snarling at each other as only cats can do.
Warning each other. Ready to attack. If it hadn’t been for the screen…
I rushed toward the screen, yelling at the feral cat. Clapping my hands to scare it away. It was unfazed.
So I upped the ante.
I went outside the lanai, careful to keep Skippy inside. I ran toward the feral cat, yelling and clapping. It ran off.
Or so I thought.
Back inside the lanai, it was only seconds before the snarling began again. And I realized… the feral cat had run only a few feet.
So I doubled down.
My next charge outside the lanai forced the enemy to flee over the fence. Skippy followed its trail as best she could, from the safety of her screened-in sanctuary.
I went and picked her up to bring her inside. As I turned, I saw the porch light reflected in the feral cat’s eyes. Still nearby, watching.
But Skippy was safe. I was like a lioness, protecting her own. Suddenly it dawned on me… Isn’t that how You are, Lord?
The Lion of Judah… protecting Your own?
“See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed.” (Revelation 5:5)
“The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; He is their stronghold in time of trouble. The Lord helps them and delivers them; He delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in Him.” (Psalm 37:39-40)
It has taken awhile for Skippy to settle down. She’s been pacing by the door, ready to go back outside and do battle.
She’s grateful to be near me. She knows I love her and am here for her. But she’s also fearless! No predator is going to dampen her spirit!
That’s how I want to be, Lord. Grateful to be near You. Knowing You love me. Knowing You are here for me…
… and, therefore, fearless in the face of any enemy!
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
Skippy’s snarling has turned to snoozing. She’s curled up nearby, sacked out. An adrenaline “crash” works every time!
Not me. I’m still wired. Guess I’ll turn in anyway, Abba. Maybe I could fall asleep counting lion cubs instead of sheep? 🙂
Joyfully Yours,
Abba’s Girl