5 Minutes of Hope

Some childhood memories bring laughter. Some childhood memories bring tears. SOME childhood memories … we can’t remember.

I have one that’s tattooed forever IN my mind and ON my heart.

I might have been 11 or 12. It was winter. I was at the Presque Isle outdoor skating rink in Presque Isle, Maine … skating … or, attempting to.

There’s a good chance I was either moving in the WRONG direction or picking myself up from yet another fall. When I looked up, a full-grown adult of the male persuasion was barreling down the rink heading my way … at full speed. If we collided … it was gonna hurt.

Hello friend and welcome to 5 Minutes of Hope.

Today’s topic is: Held.

What transpired in the next several seconds is both difficult to describe and comprehend. In my MIND, I thought I was about to feel like grandma getting run over by a reindeer. But in my HEART, O, my heart melted at the thoughtfulness and kindness of what this stranger did.

He may or may not have slowed down, I don’t know, but what he DID do was stretch forth his arms and embrace me and on impact he held me until we safely skidded to a stop. I don’t remember if any words were exchanged but my heart was smitten with his kind and caring gesture. The story could have easily read, “Hit and Run!” However, on impact … he held me.

There are photographs that verify my dad held me as an infant and young child, but I have absolutely NO recollection of it taking place. He died in an airplane crash when I was just over two years old. This incident at the rink was my first glimpse of a Father’s love for me.

Friend, whether tragedy STRIKES with or without warning, or you’re simply struggling to breathe and make sense of it all … you MUST know:

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

Psalm 23:1

The prophet Isaiah proclaimed:

He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

Isaiah 40:11

Held

Kept … by His power.

Carried … in Him arms.

Safe and secure am I.

Strengthened … by His grace.

Encouraged … by His Word.

Held … I am His, He is mine.

Christa Nichole Wells penned the lyrics and Natale Grant sings the song:

♫ This is what it is to be loved

And to know that the promise was

When everything fell we’d be held

Dear one, do not be deceived with the lies of the enemy that God has abandoned you. You may not FEEL Him near, but He will NEVER forsake you. You are NOW and forever in His arms and … we are HELD by our great Shepherd.

Mighty God, thank you for your promise that you CARE. Cause us to remember … you WILL carry us, and we are HELD. In the matchless Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, we pray. Amen

Friend, may you be filled with hope today and share it with others.