As death approaches we can feel like a child in the dark. Shadows are scary, becoming imaginary monsters. Sounds seem to signal an intruder in our midst. Familiar bedroom objects are transformed into dangerous phantoms.

If we have experienced trauma, combat, or abuse, approaching death may jerk us back into that former reality with such force that it is difficult to know what is real and what is not. Our very faith may be shaken; thus the core of who we are may waver and threaten to dissolve. How important then to return to the foundation of our strength, to turn to the Scriptures which have helped past generations claim the living God as their Shield, their Rock, and their Fortress.