God Whispers

Three granddaughters so far. Being their “Nan” is nothing short of amazing – a high privilege, a cherished role, utter joy.

Hazel, the oldest, is curious, kind, and watchful. A helper already. She understands so much these days and has a charming lilt in her voice when she asks, “Why?” She has a confident, gentle way of interacting with the people around her. When we’re together, and she’s still long enough for a hug or a cuddle, I whisper, “I love you.” “Jesus loves you so much!” “I’m so thankful to be together today.” “I think you’re amazing.” “I love being your Nan.”

This isn’t something I intentionally set out to do – it just happens.

Thea, who is just 5 months old and has been in the hospital since she was born (surgery is scheduled soon!), has heard me whisper, too. Looking into her eyes, I see deep pools of mystery and understanding as she steadily meets my gaze. “Sweet, strong girl.” “I love you so much.” “Just wait until you see your room at home!” “You’re going to love sunshine.” “Jesus loves you so much!”

And little Millie will arrive very soon. I’m not sure what my heart will have to say to her yet – but I’m excited to find out! Maybe my first whisper will be “Welcome to the family. Jesus loves you and we all do, too.”

I believe that God has whispers for us, as his beloved children. “I love you so much.” “I’m right here.” “I will help you get through this.” “I am going before you to clear the path.” “Don’t give up.” “I cherish the time we spend together.” “You don’t have to worry.”

Are we listening?

He will cover you with his feathers,
    and under his wings you will find refuge;
    his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
Psalm 91:4

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become
children of God—  children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will,
but born of God. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.
We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son,
who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:12-14

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—
 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—
and I lay down my life for the sheep. 
John 10:14-15

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.  Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.  No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
1 John 4:10-12