# Psalm 27:1, 4-9_Cook for January, 25, 2026

You, O God, are a fortress
high up on a hill away 
from all that could cause harm —
and there is so much right now that
could bring such terror — but you 
are a place. Not just a feeling or a hope
but an actual place where I can find
protection from everything thing
that scares me.

O God, I am so scared.
I crave the shelter of your walls,
so strong and safe. 
Be my salvation.

I do not live in a time when 
allusions to the military garner
such security or hope. 
There is too much to fear. 

We might hope for 
the brilliance of light shining
in the deepest darkness
but the one thing we really ask for
is that place where there will be no trouble.
That place where we can 
see your face clearly, 
assuring us that 
there is nothing to fear. 
You are our stronghold.