I found a pathway in Italy, a ribbon of blacktop cut through the countryside where I enjoy walking. One day I spied a sign while on the trail, "Zona di Rifugio." In Italian this means "Refuge Zone." The field is an immense space where birds and other animals can feed and roam freely, protected from hunters.

Light fills this pathway. Perhaps the light is what I love most about my time in this country. Dappled light accents ancient stone floors in the cathedrals; streaming golden rays cast light on massive columns. The glory of stained glass, deep hues of orchid and red, cerulean and amber glow from circular windows. Frescoes and paintings reflect the beauty of both shadow and brilliance. Bougainvillea spills gleaming and purple from balconies.

There aren't enough words to describe the loveliness of this country. Its beauty is refuge. Like God. He, too, is a refuge zone. His goodness is too much to fathom, like the glorious light. I can only choose to stay inside the zone where the light never fades, the protection never ends. Being here in Italy acts as a catalyst to more deeply experience and understand the mercy of Christ's shelter. He beckons me to stay, be near. Receive His beauty, allow His light to warm and comfort, to heal.

...it is good to be near God...I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge.~Psalm 73:28 (NIV)