Sometimes a story can impart information and convey truths better than a “dissertation.”  So I offer another allegory in this week’s post.  Of course, there are always weaknesses in stories; sometimes the finer details are missed.  However, it is my prayer that the main truths I am trying to convey are conveyed.  

Please note that the point is not just that the Lord is our ultimate fortress after we die, but also our fortress throughout our lives.  Nothing else besides Him and his promises provide security in this world.  As always, I pray that these words encourage you in your walk toward your heavenly home.

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The ragged bunch arrived at the coastline at dusk, the tang of the salt water strong in the air.  The thick, dark clouds were stacked high upon each other like gray-black amorphous blocks; the wind was picking up in intensity, the ocean waves rising taller and more ferocious.  A light rain dampened their cloaks and spirits; the cool drops sluicing into the gaps of their protective wear and sending chills through them as it contacted their skin. 

The storm was imminent.  Conditions would only worsen; decisions needed to be made.

A few potential solutions presented themselves from their valley view.  Situated on a nearby rock cliff perched an old fortress.  On the opposite side of the path on the overhanging bluff sat a sizable city.  Beside the trail and below the city stood stables with healthy horses feeding in the fenced pastures.  Immediately in front of them were docked a number of sturdy ships, ready to cast off, the sailors scrambling over the decks in preparation.

The travelers paused, casting their eyes around and taking in their surroundings.  Lightning flashed from the dark clouds and a thunderous boom quickly announced the charge.  Time was running out. 

A young man scurried toward them on the trail, his arms crossed, his hands tucked under the opposite arms as he clutched his cloak tightly to himself.  He seemed inclined to skirt past the group, but one of their number, a man named Hapless, hailed him.  “Good man, could you spare just a few moments to give us some guidance.  The storm is near and we need shelter.”

The youth shuffled to a stop.  He glanced around nervously at the group gathered around him.  “Make it quick, stranger.  I’ve got to get to shelter myself.”  He dipped his head and shook it a few times to clear the beaded water from the brim of his cloak.

“Much obliged, friend,” Hap replied.  “We won’t keep you long.  We’ve just arrived and would like to better understand our options.  Where might we go for refuge from this storm?”

“Lots of options,” said the young man.  He pointed to their right.  “You can hike to that old castle over yonder.”  He pointed to their left.  “You can stay in that there more modern city on the bluff.”  Lowering his hand a bit, he swept it toward the stables.  “You can get yourself some horses and head back into the forest you came from to find cover.”  Finally, he turned and gestured to the ships.  “Or you can book passage on one of those fine boats and outrace the storm.”

Hap nodded his head.  “There truly are a number of options.  Anything else you can add to help us?”

“Well, entrance into the stone fortress is free.  All the others cost coin.”

“Really?”  Hap was surprised.  At least surprised that entrance into the castle was free.  “Why is the fortress free?”

“Probably because it’s old, cold, drafty and decrepit, and nobody wants to stay there.  You get what you pay for, right?”

Hap had heard rumors of the fortress, and how the son who lived there had given his life for the benefit of the people.  He asked their young advisor if that was true.  “Supposedly,” was his answer.  “But what good did it do.  The prince is dead, the king is left behind, and we still have problems.”  He raised his eyes to the sky.  “Like this nasty storm.”

Another thunderous explosion shook the air, causing everyone to cringe.  “So which option will you be using?” Hap inquired.

“Horses or ships are good options, I think.  But I’ll be staying in the city.  Costs the most, but I like the conveniences, so it’s worth it to me.”  The young man looked again at the darkening horizon.  “Hey, I gotta go.”  He began to walk away.  “Get yourselves to somewhere safe!” he called over his shoulder.  “It’s gonna be a bad one!”

The frantic discussions began immediately among his companions.  “I vote for taking horses back the way we came.  Get on those strong animals and get back into the shelter of the forest.” 

Some agreed, but others argued, “The ships are the answer!  Board onto one of the best constructions craftsmen can make, guided by a seasoned captain, and maybe we can escape the storm altogether.”

Still others said, “I think the city is the best option.  Lots of shelter, and lots of smart and stout people.  Safety in numbers!”

Hap listened as they debated.  He was stunned that the castle wasn’t even mentioned.  Finally he spoke up.  “Why not go into the fortress?  It looks like the safest and strongest option by far, and it doesn’t cost anything.”

The others scoffed.  “That worthless old place?  Imagine how uncomfortable and cold it would be to stay inside rock walls on top of rock.  Brrr!  And it’s probably really dark and dreary too!  Doubt there are many other folks there.  And how could that be a safe place when there’s no entry fee?  Sounds like a miserable destination.  No thanks!”

A gust of wind rattled their clothes and flipped some hoods backward.  Time was running out.  Urgency set in; security was needed.  People began making choices. 

A small group took the path to the stables; they trusted the strong steeds to take them back to safety.  Another bunch set out hurriedly to catch passage on a ship before it embarked.  Their confidence was in men’s creations and cunning to deliver them to a brighter future.  The largest segment, however, headed into the city.  They were convinced that the wisest decision was to stay there, residing with the majority in comfort among all the latest conveniences.

Hap found himself alone at the intersection, tears trickling down his cheeks.  His companions were going their separate ways as the storm encroached.  Which option was best?  Hap didn’t know, but he was drawn to the sturdy fortress where the Prince who had died for the people used to reside.  Perhaps their young advisor was right; free was frivolous and foolish.  Nevertheless, he desperately longed for security, and the fortress certainly seemed most likely to offer that.

He stepped onto the path leading toward the bulwark.  It was narrow, winding and difficult, lined with rocks and roots – clearly a trail seldom used.  Resolutely he trudged upward.  Eventually the soil path gave way entirely to rock, the ridges and ruts punishing his aching feet; the surface slick with the moisture falling from the sky.  The wind velocity increased as he climbed; lightning flashes strobed more frequently, the ensuing thunder so intense it physically rattled his body.  It was imperative that Hap get out of these elements.

He hurried his pace, keeping his eyes downward, determined to follow the faint path worn into the stone.  Whenever he briefly lifted his head, the fortress appeared taller and closer.  It almost appeared to be carved from the very rock upon which it sat.

Hap wearily crested a rock hummock to find himself standing before a small door.  It was simple and unembellished, except for the words, “Come, weary and burdened.  Find rest!”  To his astonishment, the door swung open.  A handsome man with black hair, a black beard and brown eyes stepped out, wrapped his arms around him, and embraced him firmly.  “Welcome, Hap!  You were looking for shelter, and you have found it.”

Hap’s head was spinning.  Who could have anticipated such a warm welcome?  And how was it that this man knew his name?  “Who are you?” he stuttered. 

“I’m the Prince,” was the answer.

“But I heard you died!”

“I did indeed.  But do I look dead now?”  No, he definitely didn’t.  In fact, he appeared very much alive.  Vibrant even!  The Prince gently pulled him toward the open door.  “A storm rages.  Come inside!  It is safe here.”

As Hap entered the enclosure, he was bathed with light, causing his eyes to blink in adjustment.  A pleasant warmth engulfed him.  This wasn’t dreary and drafty at all!  The sumptuous smells of an abundance of food swept through his nostrils.  The Prince’s eyes twinkled, and the edges of his mouth rolled into a smile.  “Yes, Hap, there is a feast waiting for you.”

It was a thoroughly comfortable evening – a most delicious dinner at the King’s table set before a roaring fireplace, with delightful conversation, followed by a deep sleep in a comfortable bed.  Throughout the night, the storm’s intensity grew.  Hap could hear the wind howling and the horrific thunderclaps.  Though muted, the mayhem outside was still evident.  Yet the stone fortress never moved.  Hap had never felt so secure.

The next morning Hap’s curiosity compelled him to boldness.  He blurted out his question to the Prince.  “Why aren’t there more here in this wonderful, safe place, my Lord?”

Sorrow covered the Prince’s face.  “Because they think there are better options.”

“That’s ridiculous!” Hap retorted immediately.  Then he paused and reflected.  “But everyone else in my group did chose other options to try to find security from the storm.”  His thoughts turned to his former companions.  “I wonder how they fared.”

The Prince locked eyes with him.  “Not very well, I’m sorry to say.”

Hap stared at him.  “Those who chose the horses?”

“They died from exposure.”

“What about the ships?”

“Overturned.  The people drowned.”

Hap was floored.  “Those in the city are alright though, aren’t they?”

The King’s Son slowly shook his head.  “The bluff they were on was washed away by the roaring waves.  They are gone too.”

“This was the only safe place,” Hap whispered.  “Here in this fortress built on the rock.”

“Yes, Hap.  That’s right.  This is the only truly safe place.”

The Prince shared a sorrowful smile with him, then placed a soothing arm over his shoulder.  “And by the way, I am giving you a new name.  You are no longer Hapless, but Hopeful.  Because here with me you have an unwavering hope and unending security in an immovable fortress.  Now and forever.”

Hope lowered his head and wept.  But the tears were born of joy, not grief.  He was finally and fully safe.

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Psalm 18:1-2
I love you, LORD, my strength.  The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 62:1-2, 5-8
Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.  Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.  Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Matthew 11:28
(The words of Jesus)  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 7:24-27
(The words of Jesus)  “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.

But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”