Sanctuary

Sanctuary

There has always been the concept of sanctuary running through the Bible. According to Chambers Dictionary, the definition is – “Sanctuary noun (sanctuaries) 1 a holy or sacred place, e.g. a church or temple. 2 the most sacred part of a church or temple, e.g. around an altar. 3 a place, historically a church, providing immunity from arrest, persecution or other interference. 4 a place of private refuge or retreat, away from disturbance • the sanctuary of the garden. 5 a nature reserve in which animals or plants are protected by law.
ETYMOLOGY: 14c: from Latin sanctuarium, from sanctus holy.”

That’s a pretty good modern definition. In the Bible, the Sanctuary was, for the most part, defined as part of the temple, sometimes even the Holy of Holies itself, a place where the Lord resided. However, in Numbers 35, there is fairly explicit instructions for ‘cities of refuge’, or sanctuaries as defined in Chambers as “3 a place, historically a church, providing immunity from arrest, persecution or other interference.” I think from all of this we can safely assume that a sanctuary is a sacred place of safety. Indeed, even today in the UK, if you go to any church and claim ‘Sanctuary’, if the incumbent priest or pastor agrees to granting it, one can be protected from arrest for almost any crime or alleged crime.

So, you may imagine our hearts going all aflutter when the Lord gave us the name of our modest little new home here in Sleaford. Of course you have already guessed that it is to be “Sanctuary Cottage” – a name that already carries with it many thoughts and prayers for all who cross our doorway. What an exciting prospect – our home, a sanctuary for any and all who cross the threshold. It will be a place of hospitality and peace – almost a retreat – for any who stay with us. It is already a house of prayer where most who come, offer a prayer and certainly receive one before they leave.

Lord, use our home and us as a sanctuary where others may come and safely seek you in the stillness or in the fellowship. A place of healing body, soul, and spirit. A place of refreshment in You. A place to try out our eagles wings. A place to be still and know that you are God (Ps 46:10)

All Praise and Glory to You, Lord \o/ AMEN