My enemies surround me on every side, as far as I can see. All the familiar ones are present, as well as some I do not recognize. Anxiety is behind me, just out of sight, threatening to overtake my body; I can feel its chilling, evil presence. Depression is off to my left, and I hear its sinister voice attempting to lure me into a black hole nearby. I cannot see the bottom of the pit, but I sense the despair within. Fear is all around me, spewing lies about my present, lies about my future, and doubts about my calling, and shaking the very ground on which I stand. Shame jeers in my face, telling me something is wrong with me and that I will never be enough. Pain, death, loss, regret – all are there, taunting me, closing in with a palpable and overcoming darkness that I am helpless to resist. I shut my eyes tight and whisper a silent cry for help, not even sure what I am expecting or hoping will happen.

Suddenly, I feel the ground become still and solid under my feet. Peace and warmth gently fill my soul and softly kiss my skin. Light is touching my closed eyelids. I open my eyes, and there in front of me, filling all my vision, is the Prince of Peace Himself – calm, strong, smiling, and at rest. I am vaguely aware that my enemies are still present, but now an invisible circle of protection has come between us, and they have been forced back by the light. Their evil voices fade into the background as all my senses are captivated by this Man in front of me. I see no one else, and I know I do not need to. He is all I need; in fact, I am now certain that He is the only One I have truly ever needed and desired. He is my Shield, my Deliverer. Seeing a shepherd’s staff in his hand, I know He comes to lead me to good pastures where I will not want; to quiet places where I can rest and be restored by His own gentle hand. And I also know I would give my very life to follow this kind and confident King who comes to set me free.

AMBER GRACE, NOVEMBER 16, 2021