A Letter to My Child

Dear Child of Mine,

In times like these, maybe you could use a reminder of all the love I have for you. Long before you were conceived, I loved you. Before the flutter of your unborn feet grew into kicks I knew you would be incredibly strong. Being born was stressful for you, but I wrapped you up and held you tight so you could sleep … well … like a baby. Those tiny fingers and toes glistened with my kisses, yet it was that tiny heart of yours that fascinated me most. Ka-thump. Ka-thump. Ka-thump. 

I’ve always had great plans for us. I was certain we would share uncountable good days as well as a few not-so-good ones. Whether you delighted me with hugs and kisses or stomped your feet in defiance, you were always loved. When you insisted on having your own way, I let you try that for a while because I knew you’d eventually come around. When you were frightened, I held you. When you got hurt, I took care of you and kissed away the pain. When you were confused, I listened. It made me happy to hear you work through difficult things. Every now and then, you’d even listen to me. I love knowing that my presence still gives you confidence and a sense of worth.

The twinkle in your eye let me know you loved me back, even when you thought it wasn’t cool to say it out loud. I especially loved watching you go all in with Jesus. More than anything, I wanted you to know that the love that flowed from Him connected us in a way that could never, ever be broken. I love you even more for loving Him. 

Now, that I see how you love your own children, I realize the value you’ve placed on loving others. That blesses me more than you know.

There is nothing you have ever done and nothing you will ever do, that will change my love for you. I will never stop loving you – no matter what. You have nothing to prove. No awards to win. No points to score. No offenses that can’t be forgiven. You are enough for me, just the way you are. All I ask for in return is your heart.

I gave you life. I named you. You are mine, and I love you forever and always. 

Your Loving Father,
God


O Lord, forgive us when we fail to realize the faithfulness of Your unfailing love. Pull out of us anything that does not resemble that love. May our hearts be completely filled with Your love. Thank you for redeeming us, calling us, and making us Yours. Let us feel Your presence so we can lead others to the peace we all need. Let nothing we do be for ourselves; let it be all for you. In the loving name of Your Son Jesus, Amen.

But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you.
O Israel, the one who formed you says,
”Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.
I have called you by name; you are mine.
When you go through deep waters,
I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
you will not be burned up;
the flames will not consume you.
For I am the Lord, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
I gave Egypt as a ransom for your freedom;
I gave Ethiopia and Seba in your place.
Others were given in exchange for you.
I traded their lives for yours
because you are precious to me.
You are honored, and I love you.‘”

Isaiah 43:1-4, NLT

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