The Lord is a Refuge

The Lord is a refuge to his people. 

Even though biblical scholars argue over the exact time when Joel prophesied, one thing is sure.   The Israelites were in bad shape.   They had been led astray by neighboring peoples and had embraced their false idols and unjust practices.

Israel’s sin seemed overwhelming, and yet Joel promised that God would still be their refuge.   Even when they were at their worst—especially when they were the furthest from him—God promised to protect them, restore them, and make them fruitful again.

This is the beautiful thing about the way the Bible describes God’s love for his people.   It is so strong that despite all their sins, he never abandons his plan to make them fruitful and prosperous.   Like a fervent lover or zealous parent, he never tires of picking them up and restoring them.   Their weakness spurs him to action.   He even promises to punish all those who have led them astray!

Don’t be mistaken—“God’s people” is not just a historical group.   You are part of that people.   He looks at you with the same love and commitment that he had for the Israelites of Joel’s time.   Yes, he sees your sin.   Yes, he knows your infidelities even better than you do.   But he is always your refuge; he is never, ever your enemy.

Do you want to get a taste of God’s perfect, merciful love?   Then go to Confession.   Let him wipe away your sins, no matter how many or how grievous they are.   Let him shower you with love and prove that he wants to do nothing but good for you.   Let him heal your wounds so that you can become fruitful for him.

God’s love and mercy are also available to you every day at Mass.   It’s there, before the altar, that we see Joel’s promise come to fulfillment: “The mountains shall drip new wine . . . A fountain shall issue from the house of the Lord” .   There, as bread becomes divine Flesh and wine becomes divine Blood, our Redeemer meets us with tender personal love.   He comes to nourish us, to tend our wounds, and to show us our true dignity and honor.

Your Father is completely committed to you.   He is your refuge—now and forever!

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