Living in Germany definitely has its perks; a campsite in old castle ruins would definitely be one. A year and a half ago, a group of friends went up to Sausenburg to camp out at a castle. It was the start of a tradition called Castle Camping. Last time it was Castle Camping with Disney; this time, we repeated our original soundtrack of Jazz music, which somehow seemed appropriate as it was also the soundtrack for the couple picnicking up on the top of the castle tower.
The whole experience was beautiful. These are beautiful friendships, and we were able to share a bit of time in God’s creation.
After the sun had set and our fire died down, we went up to the top of the tower to sleep. Seven of us, with our feet pointing outward, huddled in our sleeping bags.
I searched my Bible for an appropriate passage to read. Emily wanted to hear about the talking donkey; Marit wanted a Psalm. In the end, a very fitting Psalm appeared in the light of my headlamp.
Psalm 61
For the director of music. With stringed instruments. Of David.
1 Hear my cry, O God;
listen to my prayer.
2 From the ends of the earth I call to you,
I call as my heart grows faint;
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
3 For you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the foe.
4 I long to dwell in your tent forever
and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.
5 For you, God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.
6 Increase the days of the king’s life,
his years for many generations.
7 May he be enthroned in God’s presence forever;
appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him.
8 Then I will ever sing in praise of your name
and fulfill my vows day after day.
Sometime after midnight, we heard and saw a thunderstorm coming in. We took refuge in the tower and in the tents in the castle courtyard, remembering our true Refuge and Strong Tower. Marit and I slept in a window ledge of the tower.
How blessed we have been. To wake up in a castle tower with friends, morning mist, and a heart full of thankfulness for God. I’m also thankful, though, that I don’t normally sleep on a bed of rocks!
