Big Buddy

June 14, 2023

She was a tiny little girl, three or four years old. Kids from all over come to Vacation Bible School.

I’d never seen her before, but she was winning my heart and everyone else’s with her smile. I soon learned that she loved the toys in the church nursery, and she loved Freeze-Pops, and she loved her older brother.

She loved our toys so much that, when Bible School was finished each night, she wanted to stay. The first night she cried and cried, but her brother finally persuaded her to leave. The second night, when the session ended, she cried again and didn’t want to exit the little car she was riding in. I’m a real softie when a little girl cries, so I volunteered to push her little car all the way down the hall to the exit. She still didn’t want to get out, but I offered her my hand so she got out and I walked her to her mama’s car.

The third night of Vacation Bible School, at the end of the session I walked with her brother to find the little girl. Her tears had begun, but she readily took my big hand. We walked the hundred yards down the hall and to her mother’s car in the parking lot. She was getting more courage each day.

It’s not just the fact that she’s cute. I have found a kindred spirit. At times God has told me it’s time to leave what I enjoy and go where I really don’t want to go. I act immature, maybe even throw a little tantrum but I finally go, not because I want to but because God takes me by the hand. He’s big and gentle and I trust him.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9