A rainy cabin and a Shepherd who knows you
A rainy cabin
This week we went on a family getaway to a cabin in the woods. Well, we were supposed to stay in a tent, but because of the very rainy forecast, we opted to stay in a cabin.
The cabin was just as log-cabin-y as I’d hoped, the porch was lovely (perfect for sitting and playing guitar and/or writing) and there were lots of trails for biking. And yeah, it did rain a lot.
But you know, I didn’t really mind. Some people might look out on a grey, hazy, rainy day and feel disappointed… but I love rain, and secretly feel pleased when I see it pouring down, even if it means no biking for the moment.
We did time it pretty well, though. As soon as there was a break in the rain we’d rush out to our bikes, dry off the seats with a towel, and ride around until it started up again. I hadn’t ridden a bike in years before this week, and I can tell you, I am quite sore now. Who knew it took so many muscles to ride a bike?!
It was nice, having two days with no agenda. Two days to take a deep breath during this busy season of life and refresh.
Known by your Shepherd
Friday morning I woke up, snuck out to the cabin porch with a mug of steamy coffee, and reveled in the rainy morning, sitting alone in the chill with my Good Shepherd. There was something so peaceful about the morning. I was by myself but my family wasn’t far, and I breathed in the peace I felt in Jesus’ presence.
It wasn’t anything magical. The air didn’t shimmer. It was just me sitting on a porch, glasses on my nose, my heart whispering to the One who created me.
I read one of my favorite passages in the Bible, John 10.
I wanted to share this bit with you:
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.
John 10: 27-28
Okay, great. Now read that again. Imagine Jesus speaking it directly to you.
You listen to my voice.
I know you.
No one will snatch you out of my hand.
His love is mind-boggling, isn’t it?
We’re his children.
We have nothing to fear.
No one will snatch us out of his hand.
Be reminded of his goodness. Be encouraged!
And finally, a random recommendation…
On the drive home yesterday afternoon I listened to podcasts for a while to pass the time. Now, I don’t know how many of you are familiar with Drew Miller and the Rabbit Room, but they have this podcast called The Molehill.
Let’s just say I found it quite delightful. (Words of Befuddlement, anyone?)
Comment below to tell me what you think. When do you feel best known by your Shepherd?
Good question. After careful consideration, I’ll have to say in the middle of the night. I’m not a morning person by any stretch of the imagination, but I have no problem staying up long past the time when the world has gone to sleep. I absolutely love the stars, as well, so I’d say that’s when I feel best known by my shepherd.
Oh, that’s beautiful, Stella. Thanks for sharing!
Lovely post Abby and great question! I’d have to say it’s the morning for me. When I wake up before anyone else and the house is all mine I can simply lean back against the wall and close my eyes and simply be with the Lord. That’s also when I feel the most at peace and ready to dive into his Word. It makes me think of another poem you wrote, “It’s just me and you, Daddy.” So the morning is when I feel best known by my Shepherd.
Ah, I love that, Grace. ♥ Beautiful.
This was lovely, Abby! For me it’s probably when I’m walking in the woods and the sunlight dances off the leaves and there isn’t any sound but water from a nearby stream or river, the insects, and birds, and the wind high above me.
That, I think, is when it’s easiest for me to remember that He is there. That He is with me.