I first published this article in The Secret Place, Fall 2016
“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms….” Deuteronomy 33:26a (NIV)
A tickle deep in my throat prompted me to leave the sanctuary during the sermon. I got a drink, coughed, and blew my nose where the noise wouldn’t disturb others. Standing outside the nursery, I heard several little ones crying. On an impulse, I opened the door, ready to help.
As soon as I walked in the room, a little cherub of 2 or 3 walked toward me with arms outstretched. I sat on the floor and she climbed into my lap and placed her head on my chest. After a few moments she got up and played with one of the toys. Soon she was back on my lap, ready for more snuggling. For the rest of the service, she didn’t say a word, but quietly cuddled.
I didn’t hear the sermon that morning. My sermon came in actions, not words. A little toddler reminded me that God will hold and comfort us whenever we walk toward him with arms open wide.
PRAYER: Abba Father, let me be like the little child, my arms open wide to receive your comforting embrace.
Growing Our Faith Together 