and underneath are the everlasting arms

October 2009

One of the most magical moments of any parent's life is seeing their children take those first few steps, marking another important stage in the journey of life. Although we are ‘wired up' to walk, instinctive for the majority of the human race, those tentative, courageous first few steps usually require the outstretched arms of a mother or father waiting close by. The confidence this gives to the toddler is immeasurable, as they know that if they stumble or fall they will be caught and made safe. This relationship continues with all those many     future first steps the little one will face, first day at school, first sports match, first cycle ride, first love, first job, etc. Sometimes these things will lead to success, at other times rejection and pain. There needs to always be the knowledge, the assurance, in the back of their mind, that should they fall, there will be someone to catch them, pick them up and put them back together again.

 

The same is true of God's relationship with us. He's always watching out for us, his arms are always outstretched ready to catch us when we stumble or fall, comfort us when we are in pain, reassure us when we are frightened. Even in death God's arms are there, holding us and leading us to eternal life.

 

God loves us and doesn't want to see us hurt or harmed, but when those times do afflict us, he is there with outstretched arms to carry and support us, just like a good parent. Whether we see it or not, we rest secure in his everlasting arms.

With every blessing,         Paul

© Copyright Hatfield Church / Tim Sweed 2008