Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.” -Psalm 91:1-2
Summer is a wonderful time of the year. Yes, I know that it is hot, but great things happen during the summer. One of my favorite things is attending summer church camp and mission trips. We recently sent many of our high school students to camp. I could not help but think about my many wonderful experiences at camp as we watched the bus pull away. It is such a joy to join with friends from all over to worship, study, play, and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. Summer church camp is a special place and event.
It was at church camp that I first encountered a wonderful tradition. During the day, students and staff would take time to practice what is called TAG (Time Alone with God). Each camper and staff would take their Bible and a devotional and find their place away from the rest of camp to have a time alone, encountering God. As a young teenager this was an extremely difficult practice. I wanted to enjoy my friends. I found it hard to be quiet, be alone, and grow still. After some time, the practice of sitting still and having time alone with God grew on me.
As I grew in my own faith, I understood that we do not have to go to camp to have TAG time. Today, I love to go fishing and spend time alone with God. You may have another practice. This time is important because it reminds us that God is with us.
If we will find a moment to step away from the things that so easily occupy our attention, take our Bible and focus on God, we can have the blessing of a time that grows our faith and strengthens our relationship with God. When do you take time to just focus on God? When do you work to remove yourself from all that is going on around you and have some focused time with the One who loves you? Time alone with God is a gift that will bless us richly.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
