Shadows in a Thirsty Land

by Brooke Bergan
Published March 14, 2008

Each man will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land.
-Isaiah 32:2 (NIV)

Have you ever been lost in a desert? I haven't, but I've heard many stories of less fortunate souls. Imagine now that you are just such a soul. You've gone two days without water, but try as you might, you can't find your way out of the desert. You feel weak, and the sun's relentless heat tortures your badly burned skin. Fear and discouragement set in as you realize you may never find safety again.

All of a sudden, you stumble across a spring. Fresh water abounds, and there's even a rock to shield you from the sun. You drink your fill, and though hungry, make your way to the rock for a much-needed rest. Suddenly your heart skips a beat. You look again. Is it a hallucination? You blink, then blink again. No, it's still there. On the rock is a chiseled map. Someone has been there, someone knows the way out! But how clear could a landmark be in this desert? As you study the map, suddenly someone steps out from behind the rock. You stumble backwards, but as you look up, you see that His eyes are gentle. You somehow sense that He understands your despair. He silently offers you food, rest, and a warm blanket for the night. Tomorrow, He says, He'll take you safely through.

As believers, we are called to be a source of refreshment to all those around us. As water in the desert or a large rock in a thirsty land, we offer a small taste of what all people need to survive. We may not have all the answers, but upon our lives is chiseled a map, and within our hearts lies the key and the One who is the source of life itself. The Bible says God allows us to "feast on the abundance of (His) house," and to "drink from (His) river of delights" (Psalm 36:8). He Himself is the fountain of life (v.9), and in His wings all can find shelter from the storm (v.7). He has created us in His image, and offered us the best of His own household. Shouldn't we share the abundance with others, then point them to the Source Himself?

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