Flee as a Bird

I've been reading, "For Times of Trouble: Spiritual Solace from the Psalms" by Jeffrey R. Holland. My sister gave me the book a few months ago. This book has had a real calming effect upon me. I really like the way it is laid out: very short chapters (a page and a half) each with thought-provoking messages that I can reflect on throughout the day. There are also beautiful, serene pictures throughout the book, all of which have the effect: "Ahh, take a breath."

One of the most recent chapters was from Psalm 11:1 that talks about putting our trust in the Lord. Some commentary suggests we automatically trust the Lord when we are in danger, perhaps this psalm inspires the action of fleeing to our mountain, our Lord for security.

I would like to directly quote Elder Holland's interpretation as it "spoke" to me.

 "Sometimes when life is complex and demanding we simply need to "get away." This is not to be confused with "run away," but it is to go --- physically, if possible, but in any case spiritually, mentally, and emotionally -- to a mountain or some other favorite place of renewal. Sometimes we need to fly like a bird, and in so doing find the freedom to regroup and renew.  Then we can return to the fray with stronger faith and greater hope, renewed vigor for the battle of life." (Holland 37) 

Elder Holland goes on to talk about how Jesus did this often. Crowds became too great. He would retreat to his beloved Galilee.

I loved reading these words because I have always considered my hometown as spot of earth that renews me. I love going up the hillside to the beautiful cemetery where my grandma and grandpa are buried:


I know there are better pictures than this - of this- but this one is special because my little Mosses were with me and took the picture and felt the peace of this special place.

 The final quotation in the chapter goes as follows:

"Life is demanding. Our days are complex. People's needs are great.  We are expected to fight the good fight. That is our purpose and duty. But to do so we need renewal physically, we need refreshment spiritually, and we need peace emotionally.  To do so we need time with God and ourselves.  We need solitude.  We need the strength that fleeing as a bird to our holy mountain will provide." (Holland 38)

Can you find the bird? Look closely.