My favorite feature at our home in Middleville Michigan was the custom built fire-pit in the backyard. The U-shaped property line was surround by large maple trees and this rock lined pit was tucked into the edge of the tree line.
After we would put the kids to bed, Shelli and I would sneak outside and steal a few moments together by firelight. If you have ever sat around an outdoor fire on a crisp evening and stared at a flickering flame, you will understand our overall feeling of serenity during these moments. We would hold hands and talk… or say nothing.
During one of our particularly quiet nights, we heard some rustling in the woods behind us. The noise grew louder and louder as whatever it was came closer. This ‘growing unknown’ elicited a mild concern that quickly turned into a raging panic, and subsequently forced Shelli and I to run like crazed maniacs through the darkness to the safety of our deck.
I quickly reached inside, and grabbed a flashlight so I could identify what had just scared the beJesus out us. JUST as I expected, it was a monster with 10 eyes, 20 legs and 20 rows of teeth!
Wait… It was a family of 5 beady-eyed hungry raccoons coming to see what the birdfeeder or trashcan might have contained. In an act of macho courage, I screamed, flailed my arms and ran at the group, causing them to hiss, growl, and scatter.
Shelli and I stayed inside the remainder of the night, and laughed at how scared we were over this ragtag group of bandits. I could have sworn that what we heard was as large as a bear. In the dark, small things sound SO big, however when we shined a little light towards our menace, it seemed so insignificant. I actually felt a little silly being afraid.
I’ve struggled with fear in the past, and from time to time I get spooked by the unknown. As my faith has grown, I have found strength in a particular bible verse in anxious situations. It’s Joshua 1:9. After God told Joshua to go complete a mission for Him, God said “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
It’s amazing what shining a Light will do to calm your fears!
What’s spooking you?
Love,
Jason
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October 31st, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Way to many memories to share of sitting around that fire pit with a tremendous friend and family! As far as what is spooking me…this world we live in and what it will become for our children! I stand firm on Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
I love you Brother!
October 31st, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Jason,
Thanks for sharing that. I’ve had a couple of scary moments myself. Thanks for the bible verse (Joshua 1:9). I’m stepping alittle into the unknown myself tomorrow, singing at a pro life rally (40 days for Life). It’s all Christcentered-by the way… I appreciate your prayers!
In Christ,
“Tawana”
October 31st, 2008 at 5:18 pm
SHINE THE LIGHT OF JESUS. GOOD STUFF. may even ashare on my show this wk. keep up articles that make you think like this RON
October 31st, 2008 at 9:22 pm
Ron, that would be great. You could read it or call me and I will. I had a blast writing this and the experience was a funny one after the fact!
Thanks for the kind words Tawana and Gene.
Gene– We had some GOOD times around that fire. Remember when I stupidly poured a half of a glass of gas on it and you were holding Kianna? She said “Fire go boom!” That may be another story!
Jason