‘Tis Bethany

The last few weeks I noticed it’s been more difficult than usual to sit down and write. Part of this is a concern for how the Covid-19 pandemic is impacting the world. It is surreal, isn’t it, to know everyone is in the same boat, rocking to the same storm? I feel like the world is somewhere between hanging on for dear life, and trying to find a new rhythm to something that does not seem to be going away anytime soon.

I have confidence I’ll be returning to the Song again shortly. It’s interesting where we left off, too! But meanwhile it seems important in this season to en-COURAGE one another in whatever way possible, as often as possible. I need it. I know we all need it.

Recently a poem came back to memory that the Lord gave me once during a stormy time. It’s connected to the small town of Bethany — and the home of three siblings that Jesus liked to retreat to for safety, rest, and fellowship.¹ I learned then, and am still learning it; Bethany represents a place in our hearts that can be visited at any time, by faith.

I pray in the continuing days of uncertainty ahead, that we find anchored solace in this “Bethany place.”

Hugs!

‘Tis Bethany

There is a place, ‘Tis Bethany,
A place we can always stay.
‘Tis a place right here, so near,
We enter it when we pray.

‘Tis true to say, the Lord takes rest,
Here is the heart of ours.
He eats with us, He speaks with us,
He feeds us bread and wine.

Oh crushing blows! When in the cold,
Outside is a painful place.
But Love in here, sees all our tears,
And washes them from our face.

Oh cozy place, with peace and love,
Nothing can touch us here.
Secret Garden, our High Tower,
How good to know no fear.

We keep this place, all neat and clean,
We make it for His best.
This is the place, ‘Tis Bethany,
The Lord is pleased to rest.

• Pamela Olivetree, Dec. 2008

¹ Mark 11:11-12, John 11:18