WHERE IS YOUR HIDING PLACE? by Lylah Ledner
Have you ever experienced the power of music to connect you to something greater than yourself?
It was in January 1980, that Michael Ledner, a psalmist, tender shepherd, pastor, composed You Are My Hiding Place.
Michael composed "You Are My Hiding Place" at the age of 27. Married right out of high school without any Biblical foundation, Michael’s first wife, after years of separation, eventually asked for a divorce. It was during that season that he wrote many songs and this particular one, You Are My Hiding Place, seemed to flow effortlessly. The day after he wrote it, he shared the song with several friends, made a cassette recording of it, and set it aside.
Nine months later Michael shared this song with a group while they were serving at a kibbutz (communal settlement) in Israel. These friends took the song back with them to California, and after it was sung there, Michael was contacted by Maranantha! Music who wanted to record "You Are My Hiding Place" on their next album (Praise 6).
Michael is always writing songs. it’s one way he connects to God and it’s a way he shepherds people…through his music. You Are My Hiding began with Psalm 32:7 and as he experimented with melodies (there is ALWAYS a melody in Michael’s heart/head/soul), he began to incorporate other verses that would complement the message. He added Psalm 56:3 and 2 Corinthians 12:10.
The words of this song speak a universal truth - when the storms of life hit us - we seek a place of refuge in something...or someone. Hiding in Jesus is the safest place - and when we look to Him, He is always there. And as we commune with Him, He fills us with peace, with joy, and sometimes with songs the deliver us from the enemies of fear, worry and anxiety. It was Maranatha Music that pursued Michael back in 1981 to publish You are MY Hiding Place on their Praise Six album.
Our prayer, especially in these days of uncertainty, is that you let the words of this song remind you that you are not alone. In the midst of life’s challenges, turn to Jesus and find solace in His embrace. Let Him fill you with His song and watch as your fears dissipate, and anxiety fades away.
Remember, the safest place is in the arms of the One who loves you unconditionally. Trust in Him, and let His song deliver you through the storms of life.