Women’s Devotion: God’s Loving Embrace
God’s Loving Embrace
He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name, welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
Mark 9:36-37
Recently we welcomed two new baby boys into our family. Taking each of my newborn grandsons into my arms was a precious and holy moment for me. I felt the love and blessing of Jesus as I held them close to my heart. It brought back sweet memories of holding each of my own children and feeling overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for this new life.
As mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, friends, many of us have had similar feelings and experiences, yet each one, like each of us, is unique. God has blessed us, and gifted us, as family, to love and care for his precious children.
I have never felt closer to God than when holding and hugging a newborn baby. They bring new life into the world and are the promise and hope for the future. I can imagine Jesus taking a young child gently in his arms, much like I did with my children and grandchildren. Not only does He wish for us to welcome the children, but to know that we also welcome Him and the Father into our lives.
God reveals himself to us in so many ways, through his Word, nature and the people and activities in our ordinary lives. We just need to be aware and open to seeing him. Nothing is more revealing of God to me than in the face of a newborn baby. I can feel Him in my soul and am reminded that He lives in this new life and He lives in me. My journey with God begins in my heart and He leads me to where He wants me to be. Let us always welcome Jesus into our lives, follow Him, walk with Him and share His love in the world.
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
Dear Lord,
Thank you for revealing yourself around us, in us and through us. Guide us along on our journey, as we recognize and follow you. Help us to have faith and to know that you are with us each step of the way.
In our beloved Jesus’ name,
Amen
This month’s devotion is written by Judy Sorensen, a member of the Sheridan Women’s Ministry Team. She is a long-time member of Sheridan and is involved with Tanzanian missions, a Grace Group, a Women’s Circle and the Music Ministry, as a worship leader. Judy is a retired kindergarten teacher and a former consultant for Opportunity Education. She and her husband, Rocky, who passed away in June 2017, have four married children, five granddaughters and two grandsons. Judy enjoys spending time with her family, friends, dog Bella and also traveling to explore God’s world. She feels blessed to be a part of the Sheridan community.