Yesterday my two year old granddaughter and I took another nature walk. She loves to be outside and amazes me at how she pays attention to every new sight and sound. On this walk, we strolled under the oak trees. She was so enamored by the acorns that she sat down among them and examined each one . . . and there are thousands out there.
As I watched those sweet tiny hands handle the "hats" I had a where-did-the-time-go-moment. You see it wasn't that long ago that I walked out under these same trees, watching the sweet tiny hands of Lilley K's daddy and his brother and sisters as they checked out the acorns.
God's grace is seen in these tiny hands. God's power to give us a fresh start each morning, God's love in that He entrusts the most precious people on earth to us. Not a day goes by that I forget to pray for the babies out there--from birth to ??? who don't have someone cradling them and saying "I love you."
You see, as the day progressed with Lilley K, her Uncle John stopped by to hug her and tell her he loves her. Her Aunt Abbie came by to play with her and tell her how much she loves her. Her Aunt Hannah declares she is her favorite little person. When her Pop walked up she ran to him and wrapped herself around his legs as she heard him say "I love you."
When Lilley and I pray before we eat, we always thank God for Daddy & Mommy. Many times after the "amen" she will smile and say, "And Kevkev, Hannah & Shay." This begins the listing of family members and friends that we thank God for. This baby is loved by many.
Back to the acorns. They reminded by that what now seems like the blink of an eye our babies grew to be men and women. I am so very proud of each one, growing to be like those tall, strong oaks. And yet there are many things their Daddy and I would do differently if we had a do-over.
It all comes down to this.
Every day and every moment in the day matters. And even though your baby girl or boy might be loved immeasurably by people, the most important part of parenting is being sure your children know how much the Great Creator loves them. Don't leave this to chance. Don't even leave it to the church. God's love is for every day. His instructions for living are for every day. His saving grace is for eternity.
Times passes quickly. Don't wait for next week, next month or next year to be the one God created you to be. You see, even though the pressure is great our God is greater. And if you rely on Him and trust Him, He will keep every promise He has ever made. Teach your babies every day who God is. Make bringing your little ones to church a priority that demonstrates He comes first in your lives.
We need more mighty oaks in this old world, don't you agree?
