John 10:27-28
My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.
Do you hear the one who knows you today? Do you hear the voice of incarnate, embodied love? Do you hear the voice of your Savior?
I know you, beloved one.
I know your heart. I know your mind. I know your spirit, so burdened and weary.
I know what makes you sing. I know what makes you weep. I know what makes you curl up into a ball and pull the blankets over your head. I know you.
I know the fears that have you in their grasp. I know the questions that come in the middle of the night. I know the astonishing moments of clarity that take your breath away. And I know the long stretches of unknowing that move like quicksand under your feet, pulling you under. I know the way forward is so unclear right now. I know it feels to you like you can’t win, like you can’t keep on. I am here, beloved.
The fears don’t hold you. You’re in my grasp.
I’ve got you, dear one. You’re safe. No matter what tomorrow brings.
Do you remember how I’ve held you in the past? Do you remember the touch of my hand on your forehead? Do you remember the lullaby I sang? Do you remember how I saw you through to the other side, how each day in the wilderness I provided just what you needed?
You can count on me again. I’m here.
I know you in the quiet moments when you pour out your heart to me–sometimes with words, so often with tears. I know you when you’re alone, illumined by the glow of the Christmas tree or the candle you’ve lit to remind you of my presence.
I know you when everything is loud and you can’t manage to run away from the demanding voices, because so many of them are in your own head. I know you in that chaos. I’m with you in the mess.
I know you, beloved, and I give you life. Today. Tomorrow. Every day to come. I give you abundant life–a life of water turned to wine, a life of overflowing goodness, a life made of days that begin and end with hope. The sun rises out of the Advent blue sky. The sliver of a moon hangs amid the stars. The trees reach up in praise; the rivers dance and dream. Together, we live.
I know you, child of my own heart. You are a reflection of my light. You shine for all the world to see. Your jagged edges catch the light and welcome those around you to draw near. Together, among you, the light spreads–ripples of vulnerable love reaching out until all are aglow.
I know you, beloved, and I will be forever on your side.
Come, Jesus, come. In the stillness and in the restlessness of this day, help us to hear your voice. Amen.
Today’s accompanying song is Forever On Your Side by NEEDTOBREATHE.
Your posts are so wonderful, Stacey!
Thank you, Mary!