Over the years I have found it so important to seek a ‘sanctuary’ – a place where I can shut myself off from all that surrounds me and commune with God

Psalm 63

I have seen you in the sanctuary

and beheld your power and your glory.

Because your love is better than life,

my lips will glorify you.

I will praise you as long as I live,

and in your name I will lift up my hands.

It’s not always been easy to find a ‘place’ – to be alone – to shut out the busyness – the noise – of my life. I have had to learn to be creative!

Often with the demands of home life my sanctuary has been outside – walking the lanes – even in the rain. I remember one particular day as I walked in the pouring rain a friend pulling up in their car to offer me a lift. I’m sure they couldn’t understand why I would rather walk!  – but to me it was a special time of just being alone with God. There is something so wonderful about sensing His presence so close and being so free to commune with Him.

 

We spent a few years on a hospital ship – moored in ports on the west coast of Africa. There were almost 400 people working and living on the ship so you can imagine it being a challenge to find some space to be alone. The only opportunity was very early in the morning – going on the deck – often climbing over those who chose to sleep outside – and finding a space before they all began to stir!

My favourite ‘sanctuary’ places are outdoors – sitting by a lake – walking by the sea – and I have been blessed over the years to be able to do both.

The timing of creating my sanctuary has always been a challenge I have to adapt to whatever is going on around me. I may have a quiet room – but to be undisturbed I need to plan my time. It all takes effort – but so definitely worth it.

My present ‘sanctuary’ is inside – as it is winter time -but – I can sit at open patio doors – getting the best of both worlds. I’m sheltered from the wind and rain – yet can feel the fresh winds on my face.

I love my ‘sanctuary’ – made special because it’s where I see – sense and feel close to God.

A ‘sanctuary’ – that special place – alone – a quiet haven

Time to reflect – commune with the Devine – see – hear and feel Him

Develop closeness – Shutting out the noise of life – my ‘sanctuary’