There he was, the main character, doing what he does best as the stunt man for one of the most popular action-packed shows in Disney World.
Among the audience of thousands, on the third row, nestled in her grandma’s lap, his 3-year-old daughter’s eyes danced with delight. She followed his leaps in the air, daring walls of fire and dropping from incredible heights. His skill displayed in the midst of the action that exploded all around that huge stage.
Then it happened. For a second, he glanced into the crowd and locked his eyes with his little girl’s. Then with a subtle move, he lifted his right hand and gave her an “I love you” sign.
Her chubby legs wiggled back and forth, making her brown curls bounce around her cheeks. And with a grin of delight, she made the same sign with her tiny hand back to him.
For a few seconds, there was a magical connection between daddy and daughter. The sign was for her. And her response was for him only.
Isn’t that the way God also connects with us? In the midst of His divine performance of making the universe happen, the sun radiate, the moon shimmer and the stars light up the dark night, He’s sending an “I love you” sign to each of us, individually, personally and directly.
Don’t believe me? The fact you’re reading these words is His “I love you” sign through the eyesight He gave you. His signs come in all sizes and forms–the hug of someone you love, the encouraging word you hear, the unexpected promotion at work, or the promise that through the uncertainty He will take care of you.
Goodness gracious, speaking for myself why don’t I appreciate those love signs more often? Why did I settle, longing and yearning to merely observe the action on the stage of life? No wonder restlessness dug day and night. The reason? Because I believed signs of His love like the one through this passage was meant for someone else. Or worse yet, I tossed it in the trash can of doubt: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you; surely I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10).
Father, I confess I had doubted your promises, regarded them as “religious or antiquated.” But now I vow to be still enough to relish in those signs of love you send my way. Help me to have that connection with you constant enough to make our relationship more vibrant, real and reassuring. In Jesus’ name, amen.
• Is doubt ruling your life lately?
• When was the last time you connected with God?
• How does His promise to connect with you personally change your outlook?
Janet Eckles
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