protection we all long for

Keiko Yamada
Jul 22
3 min read

In Whom I Trust, 2023 (11th painting of Love Series)

Keiko Yamada

Acrylic Painting on Canvas

48 x 30 inch

Many people are familiar with the fairy tale The Three Little Pigs—the youngest pig builds a house of bricks that withstands the wolf’s attack. But in earthquake-prone countries like Japan, the story changes. Surprisingly, the lightest of the houses—the one made of straw—is sometimes considered safer. Otherwise, we will be crushed under the bricks. In other words, what kind of house is best depends on the culture and environment.

We each build an invisible “house” in our hearts. While everything is going smoothly, that house may seem strong. But when storms hit—relational struggles, illness, financial instability—that house can suddenly feel shaky and uncertain. In those moments, what we truly need may not be the power to change our circumstances, but rather a covering of love, like a roof that shields our hearts.

"Love bears all things...." 1 Corinthians 13:7

The Bible says, “Love bears all things (stēgō),” a word that deeply implies to cover or to protect like a roof. One person who embodied this kind of love is Joseph from the New Testament. When he learned of Mary’s scandalous pregnancy, he didn’t shame her—instead, he chose to quietly protect (stēgō) her, when he had all the right to punish her under the law or lash out in anger and disappointment.

God knew Joseph’s fear and confusion, and sent an angel to speak to him: “do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 1:20).”

God Himself came into this world, covering our “shame,” “fears,” and “weakness” by becoming one of us.

Jesus Christ is the roof over our hearts.

Even in the middle of life’s storms, He gives peace to those who dwell under His covering. And this love isn’t just for ourselves—it’s given so we may also cover others.

When someone is crushed or struggling, perhaps there's some way that we can become a small roof for them. Silent presence, words of encouragement, prayer—these can all reflect the sheltering love of God.

Today's painting "In Whom I Trust" is inspired while I was reading the entire Psalm 91. I would love to declare Psalm 91:2 with you today.

I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.

Psalm 91:2 (ESV)

Background of the artwork consist of black (on the left), yellow (center) and blue (on the right). Each color represents days and nights of our day. Whether it is in the morning, noon, or night, we can remain under his wing, because He is our refuge and fortress. Including verse 4 of Psalm 91, 'wing' often has a symbolic meaning of God's protection, like a bird sheltering its young. Under His wing, there are eternal source of living water, wisdom and strength to live today. That is exactly what He promised.

This week, let us walk with gratitude and trust under the unshakable roof that is Jesus. And let us keep praying that we may be a roof for someone in need.

Reflection Question: