Devotional 12-4-04

A little girl frets and fidgets on a Sunday afternoon, excited about the anticipated return of her parents from an out of town trip but anxious because she can’t quite grasp the concept of patiently waiting for time to pass. In her mind, today means “now.” In her heart, loneliness means fear – an emotion she’s experiencing for the first time.

Her grandfather, whom she adores, recognizes her distress and suggests they take a walk together. He has no intention of belittling her fears with adult explanations. Nor will he dismiss her worries as unimportant or immature. He will, instead, walk with her, be with her, just as she is – and in the walking, strengthen that very special relationship that is uniquely theirs.

Knowing she can trust him, she reaches for her grandfather’s hand.

My grandfather and I shared that walk almost 50 years ago. The very special relationship – uniquely ours – grew steadily stronger and more loving as we spent time together. It didn’t matter what we did. The importance was in the “being,” not the “doing.” Walking with him that Sunday, holding his hand, did nothing to make time pass more quickly, or bring my parents home sooner, or totally take away the loneliness. Walking with him that Sunday, holding his hand, did everything to make me feel loved, protected and valued.

From Scripture we are told, “The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17) NIV. “Do not be afraid for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name, you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you.” (Isaiah 43: 1a – 2b) NLT. “‘The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel!’ – which means ‘God with us.’” (Matthew 1:24) NIV

This Advent Season we have a wonderful opportunity to share the blessing of “God with us.” As we journey to the manger to celebrate our Lord’s birth, we can invite a child to walk with us, hand in hand, to experience God’s love, joy and delight in being with us.

And in the walking…………Amen

Linda Summers