I was watching a family camping around the bend from us. The littlest boy, about two, was practicing his newly learned running skills. He raced across the road, in the half-shuffle, half-jog of the running toddler, then threw himself on the grass at the edge of the campsite. He let out a howl, and his father immediately turned and started toward him. As soon as he saw that he had his father’s attention, he leaped to his feet and raced across the grass.

I smiled to see the test that the father had passed so promptly and so lovingly. Little ones want to know that they are noticed and cared for, even when the crisis is a self-made one. This tiny boy felt safe and cherished, and was free to continue in his play.

How like our relationship with our heavenly father this is! We trip over circumstances, and howl, or throw ourselves down through our own choices, and wail.  Our Father sees. He cares. He comes to our aid. And we can get up and continue on our way, knowing that we are within the boundaries of his loving attention.

On your safari through this life, whether you are running in delight, or lying on the ground, wondering what comes next, may you always be aware of those loving eyes upon you and that powerful presence coming to gather you up and comfort you on your way.