In continuum of my exegesis on the classic book Lord of the Rings, the below passage struck a chord with me.
“but such was the virtue of the land of Rivendell that soon all fear and anxiety was lifted from their minds. The future, good or ill, was not forgotten, but ceased to have any power over the present. Health and hope grew strong in them, and they were content with each good as it came, taking pleasure in every meal, and in every word and song.”
Frodo and the other hobbits, after their miraculous escape from the dark riders are rescued and nurtured in the house of Elrond, in the land of Rivendell. The injured Frodo is nurtured back to good health by the wise Elrond and his household. They find peace and comfort in Elrond’s house. Rivendell offers a beautiful landscape and a much needed sanctuary from the dark forces of the enemy. Warriors from various places fighting the evil force like Legolas, Boromir, Gimli, etc, come to the house of Elrond seeking wise council. And there the famous council takes place, where wise words are spoken, stories told and the future course of the ring is decided. Frodo must carry the burden of the ring to it’s destined place to be destroyed, with the help of his friends, Gandalf, Aragorn and others. In preparation for their journey, scouts from Rivendell are sent out to garner information on their perceived course and the whereabouts of the enemy.
In the midst of all this, the above quoted passage occurs, showcasing the virtue of Rivendell.
This to me, is a picture of the church. A place of sanctuary from the darkness of the world, a respite from the noise and busyness of the world. A place where the pursued find safety. A place where the wounded and hurt are recuperated. A place where people come seeking wise council. A place where health and hope are recovered and grow strong. Where there is contentment, where every meal is treasured, where songs are sung.
It’s a place of resistance against the evil empire. It’s a place of wise council, a place where the mission is planned, the cost is counted and then carried forward by going forth.