"Close"

Throwing a leg over,

And lifting up the reins,

Somehow eases tension,

And dulls what gives me pain.

Not just because a-horseback,

Is where I ought to be,

Or that it gives me comfort,

To ride a circle free.

But just seems like the Good Lord,

Is riding right beside,

And if I listen closely,

His words come and abide.

And, no, I can’t explain it,

But it never seems to fail,

And I praise Him for it,

As I move on down the trail.

I know He comes in many ways,

And I believe to all,

It’s not just a cowboy thing,

But humankind’s full sprawl.

But for me it’s when I’m horseback,

That He seems close and real,

I know that it’s the Spirit,

Speaking what I feel.

So if you’re feelin’ lonely,

And don’t know what to do,

Maybe call on Jesus,

Ask Him to speak to you.

“He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams…” (Ps. 23:2, NLT)

With Jesus leading our lives, peaceful streams are in our future. He comforts, relieves, and heals. He gives us new strength when we need it the most. He casts out the fear that paralyzes us, and anoints us with His blessing. It’s all about His presence, and learning to welcome Him consistently. Most of us have a favorite place or activity that helps us to become more aware of Him. All such catalysts are important. But what is even more important is to know that Jesus never leaves or forsakes us. His presence never leaves us, whether we are aware of Him or not. He is never distant, but always right there waiting for us to acknowledge Him. Life is richer when we do.

Lord, teach us to consistently acknowledge Your comforting presence, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Herman Walker, hermanwalker.com. Used by permission. Thanks, Herman, and God bless you.