A Refuge.
Been pondering about the great Word given by Pastor Kong today, and it was interesting how both relate to 'a place'. Both were shelters, both were places of protection. In a way, both related to defense.
But what was interesting is how the word 'fortress' is derived. In Hebrew, the word is "metzuda". Synonyms in the description of such a place include 'castle', 'stronghold', 'strong place'.
Lest I drift too far away, let's not forget the English definition. It basically means a military stronghold. It is a source of refuge and support. Protected and Impenetrable.
A refuge, or 'machaseh', is a place of shelter, notably from rains and storms and from danger. To me, it is a 'hiding place', somewhere to go to when things are a little too rough for you outside.
And herein lies the difference. The Fortress is a place of 'defense', while a refuge is a place of 'hiding'.
I'd hardly think that a fortress, though possibly a source of refuge, is a place of complete safety. When under siege, the defending soldiers are DOING stuff. They are manning the ramparts, loosing arrows, pouring burning oil on invaders, firing ballistae, pushing down scaling ladders, rushing from one wall to another to fend off the enemies who have managed to secure footholds.
All these done while under peril of arrow and sword in their battles, of death and destruction in their situations and of sadness and despair against overwhelming odds.
Of course, our battles no longer take that form, but it is something to note.
In a refuge, we hide. We take shelter from raging storms and prowling predators.
In a fortress, we fight. We defend ourselves against adversaries i.e. negative thoughts and circumstances threatening to invade and overwhelm our lives.
One active. The other inactive.
Not saying that one is more important than the other. Sometimes we really need to just take a breather and get away from the madness threatening to swamp over us.
But at other times, we need to make that decision to be active...And fight against negative situations.
And you know what? I know that I have a God who is both my offense and defense. My Nemandja Vidic and van Persie. My Sword and my shield.
My Fortress, and my Refuge.
"I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." (Psalms 91:2, ESV)
