The Loaded Camel

There are a considerable number of interesting rock formations around the coast of the Isles of Scilly, many with such evocative names as Giant’s Castle, Monk’s Cowl, Nag’s Head, Tooth Rock and Big Jolly Rock.  Actually, I have a particular liking for ‘Droppy Nose Point’, though it’s really more of a headland than a rock formation!  But as I was walking home from town the other day I found myself thinking of a different one: the Loaded Camel.

No doubt this was because I had reached the place where I frequently find that the purchases which seemed such a manageable weight in the supermarket suddenly seem twice as heavy.  Possibly the fact that I have almost a mile to walk, much of it uphill, has something to do with it!

Camels, of course, have to kneel down to have their loads removed.  How often, I wonder, do I struggle on with unnecessary burdens, all because I have neglected to ‘take it to the Lord in prayer’?  Or maybe I have taken it, but not left it there. 

All your anxiety, all your care,

Bring to the mercy seat, leave it there.

Never a burden He cannot bear,

Never a friend like Jesus.

                             E H Joy

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

                                                                                                                                                           1 Peter 5:6-7

Our heavenly Father calls,

And Christ invites us near;

With both, our friendship shall be sweet,

And our communion dear.

God pities all our griefs;

He pardons every day;

Almighty to protect our souls,

And wise to guide our way.

How large His bounties are!

What various stores of good,

Diffused with our Redeemer’s hand,

And purchased with His blood!

Jesus, our living Head,

We bless Thy faithful care;

Our Advocate before the throne,

And our Forerunner there.

Here fix, my roving heart!

Here wait, my warmest love!

Till the communion be complete

In nobler scenes above.

                             Philip Doddridge