In 1903, President Teddy Roosevelt designated Florida’s Pelican Island as America’s first National Wildlife Refuge. More than100 years later, 560 refuges exist nationwide encompassing more than 150 million acres of water and land. Hollywood embraced this movement with their 1993 film the Pelican Brief starring Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts. The People for the ethical treatment of animals continue this mission today, putting animals in front of the line, with human beings pushed to the side.
King David introduces a different type of refuge in Psalm 59:16. Whenever David was having a bad day, he withdrew to a quiet place to seek God’s help through prayer. Although David may not of seen results after he said Amen, a sense of peace filled his heart. Despite the chaos surrounding him, the Lord’s presence provided hope to carry on. Words like Psalm 63:6-8 recount a spiritual refuge, where humans can find rest for their souls.
With America’s economy still sputtering, its hard to forget about rising gas, groceries and living expenses. While some may be prospering, many are searching for a place of refuge where hope, peace and relaxation are present. Though manufactured for fish and wildlife, this doesn’t prevent predators from cutting short lives. Therefore, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted by life’s trials, flee to a quiet place like Mark 1:35 to find a different type of refuge.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 