When the World Explodes Around You, Where Do You Run?
A personal dream, a prayer, and a reminder that our true refuge is in God, not this world.
Last night, I had a vivid dream.
I was in a car—uncertain whether I was alone or with my loved ones—but I think they were with me. Suddenly, one by one, explosions erupted around us. The cars ahead exploded in flames and to my left and right I could see and feel explosions.
Feels like the next breath could be our last.
In that moment, I did the only thing I could:
I held my wife and children close, and I prayed.
"God, forgive us. Have mercy. Prepare us to meet You."
And then I woke up.
I thought that was an unusual dream, but I didnt think much about it, as I had to see a patient today (normally I dont see patients anymore, but this was a case where he needed to be seen today).
Later that morning, I opened the news—and there it was. Russia launched one of its largest bombing campaigns on Ukraine. Real explosions. Real lives. Real families torn apart in a single moment.
It shook me.
Because while my dream ended with me waking up in the comfort of my home, for many in this world, they don’t wake up.
What If Today Was Your Last Day?
That dream reminded me of how fragile life is.
We go about our days planning for tomorrow...
Chasing wealth, status, security…
But how often do we ask ourselves:
"Am I ready to meet God today?"
The Bible puts it bluntly:
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
— Psalm 90:12“You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”
— Luke 12:40
In a World on Fire, God is Still Refuge
It's terrifying to witness wars, disasters, and crises multiplying worldwide. But here’s the thing: the world has always been fragile. Human kingdoms rise and fall. Wars come and go.
The only unshakable refuge is still, only, God.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.”
— Psalm 46:1-2
My Prayer Today
I’m praying for Ukraine. I’m praying for every father and mother holding their children in bunkers, praying the bombs miss them.
I’m praying for peace—but even more, I’m praying for hearts to find the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, before it’s too late.
And for myself, I pray:
Lord, don’t let me take today and tomorrow for granted.
Help me love my family well today.
Help me lead them closer to You, in case tonight is our last.
What About You?
If your life ended today:
Have you made peace with God?
Have you forgiven those who wronged you?
Have you lived your life loving people, not just chasing success?
This isn’t meant to scare you.
But to wake us up.
Because one day—whether in peace or in war, in sleep or awake—
we will all stand before Him.
Are we ready?
🙏 Stay close to Him. Love well. Forgive freely. Live ready.
Nigel