Near Your Altar

Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young- a place near Your altar, Lord Almighty, my King and my God.

Psalm 84:3

On a mission trip in Africa, I visited Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world. The thundering roar can be heard from twenty-five miles away. As you approach, you realize that even if your words could be heard, they would be inadequate to describe the beauty before you.

The Scottish explorer and missionary, David Livingstone, discovered Victoria Falls in 1855. Only two of the soldiers in his party would even go near the falls. It was unlike anything they’d seen or heard before.

I approached Victoria Falls, ever so cautiously. Every step taken with care, I edged closer and let the roar consume my senses. I was apprehensive and awestruck.

As I looked down upon the Zambezi River, I noticed a small bird off to my left, splashing on a rock. There was a rounded area where he apparently had found a nice retreat. Neither the unrelenting sound, nor the heart stopping chasm below phased him as he flitted and flapped in the mist.

Gazing over the expanse, how could I not think about the mighty Creator of the Universe? He is beyond comprehension in every way. Revelation describes Heaven as a place where God is unceasingly worshiped by angels and men alike. The magnificent Victoria Falls cannot compare to what wonders await us in our Heavenly Home.

Yet, even though God is beyond all imagination, He invites us into a personal relationship with Him. Through Jesus, we can pray and intimately relate with our Heavenly Father. With no fear, we can come to Him for comfort, cleansing and peace. We, like that little bird on the ledge, can draw close to Majesty and find a refuge.

Thank You, Lord, that even though You are the God of the Universe, You invite me to draw near. Help me understand the great privilege of knowing You.

Whitney