Exodus 3:5 “Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” (NIV)
Sometimes I wonder if as Christians we’re losing our understanding of sacred space and holy ground. For some folks, the church has almost become a leisure activity in the same league as weekly sports, pastimes, or hobbies, instead of a sacred time in the midst of our busy schedules or a holy break to refresh our spirits and reconnect ourselves with God. I see folks that I dearly love looking weary and tired, through trying to cope with family pressures, health changes, or career responsibilities. They’re constantly giving and emptying themselves, or busying and stressing themselves. I want to encourage them to rediscover the peace of God in their lives and find a sanctuary in His holy house. I want to tell them that God didn’t create us to always be active; He made us to enjoy His works and be strengthened in His sacred presence.
When I read how God called Moses from the burning bush and asked him to remove his sandals, I am reminded of what holy ground and sacred space are: they are places where God’s presence is intimately experienced and deeply felt. It’s a place and a time for dwelling in the mysterious moment of God’s grace and love. It’s a divine dimension where Heaven comes down to the Earth so we, as beautiful and unique creatures, can be touched by the Perfect One who made us. It’s where we learn that worship is not a timetabled activity, but an eternal part of our relationship with the Everlasting Creator. There is no other experience like it, which is why where it happens becomes holy and sacred ground.
Whatever you are going through right now, seek God’s presence in the midst of it. Whatever pressure you are under or issue you are struggling with, look for God’s holiness in it. Make time to find what is sacred, instead of dwelling on what makes you scared. Take off your shoes and dance with God, for holy ground is where we can best delight in His pleasure, blessing, and love.
Point to ponder
When did I last experience God’s sacred space and holy ground? Am I in need of it again?
Prayer: Lord God, show us where we can find some sacred place and holy ground. Allow us this beautiful blessing to refresh our spirits and renew our souls. In Christ’s Name, we humbly pray. Amen.
John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can view the church website at this link: www.erinpresbyterian.org.
Today’s image is one of John’s latest drawings called ‘Night Flowers.” If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Flowers.
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