Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals. How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart.
—Psalms 36:5-10

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Covered By The Outstretched Wings
By Jennifer Kane

The shadow of Your wings is light, not darkness, my Lord— 
A radiant canopy, stretching far and wide, 
Across the world, into the deepest caverns, 
Over the highest mountains, 
And into the hidden corners of my soul. 

Your wings are vast, 
As boundless as the heavens, 
Yet tender as a mother’s embrace, 
Cradling me close to Your heart. 
Draw me near, my Lord, 
Cover me in the warmth of Your light, 
The fullness of Your love. 

Your outstretched wings remind me 
Of the cross, where Your Son stretched His arms wide— 
A refuge carved in sacrifice, 
A shelter forged in mercy. 
There, on that tree, 
Love reached its fullest measure, 
And I found my eternal home. 

Lift me high, O God, 
Above the storms that rage, 
Above the shadows that threaten. 
Let me soar on the strength of Your wings, 
Carried by the wind of Your Spirit, 
Into the safety of Your presence. 

For in Your light, I see light; 
In Your love, I find life. 
You are my refuge, my fortress, 
My ever-present help. 
Cover me, my Lord, 
Under the shadow of Your wings, 
And let me rest in the promise of Your eternal embrace.

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Scriptures: Psalm 36:5-10 

In Psalm 36, David paints a breathtaking picture of God’s mercy, faithfulness, and protection. He begins by contrasting the wickedness of humanity with the boundless goodness of God. David’s words remind us that God’s mercy is as vast as the heavens, His faithfulness as enduring as the clouds, and His righteousness as unshakable as the mountains. These images are not just poetic; they reveal the immensity of God’s love and care for His creation.

A few weeks ago I learned of the Hebrew word “hesed”, often translated as “lovingkindness” or “mercy,” which is the central word in this passage. Remember thaf it speaks of God’s covenant love—a love that is steadfast, unfailing, and deeply personal. Like David, I am just in awe over how precious this love is, it really is a refuge where we can find safety and rest. David uses the beautiful image of God’s wings, a symbol of divine protection, to illustrate how God shelters His people. Just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, God covers us with His love, shielding us from harm.

But this imagery doesn’t stop in the Old Testament. It finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. On the cross, Jesus stretched out His arms, not only to bear the weight of our sins but also to complete the protection God promised. His outstretched arms are the ultimate expression of God’s *hesed*—His unfailing love and mercy. In Christ, we see the fullness of God’s protection and the depth of His love.

Take a moment to reflect on the vastness of God’s mercy. Like the heavens, it is beyond measure. No matter how far you may feel from God, His mercy reaches you. 

Just as David found refuge under the shadow of God’s wings, you too can trust in God’s care. When life feels overwhelming, remember that Jesus’ outstretched arms on the cross are a reminder of His constant protection. 

God’s love is not just a shelter; it is a source of joy and satisfaction. Spend time in His presence, allowing His love to fill you and bring you peace. 

God’s mercy is as vast as the heavens, His protection as sure as the mountains, and His love as complete as the cross. In every season of life, we can find refuge under His wings and strength in His outstretched arms. Let us rest in the assurance of His unfailing love today and always.

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Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless mercy and love. Your faithfulness reaches to the skies, and Your righteousness stands firm like the mountains. Thank You for covering me with Your wings and for the ultimate protection found in Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Help me to rest in Your love, trust in Your care, and find joy in Your presence. Continue Your lovingkindness to me and to all who seek You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 5, 2025