On the Palms of His Hands

See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before Me. Isaiah 49:16

Our daughter, Kelly, is so faithful to send us a brief text on most days to let us know how the boys are doing. Their Granddad is much worse than I am and gets very anxious to hear about their day! Tonight she wrote that the boys had a great day at school, but after having gone for a couple of days after the Christmas break, they were really tired. She said that Cole was especially excited to have a job in his 4 year old preschool class today. That made me smile because I know what a really big deal this is to him. I remembered going to his 3’s class with him last year around this time of year, and I had written this in my daily journal:

Today I received the sweetest blessing. I went with Cole to his 3 year old preschool class at his church. We listened quietly as his teacher called out the names of “the helpers of the day”. Each child’s face lit up as his/her name was called. Cole’s wasn’t, and I wondered if that bothered him at all. He must have read my mind, because as we got up to go to the next activity, he whispered to me, “I didn’t get to be a helper today, Nan, but that’s ok. I will another day.” I gave him a quick hug and was so proud of him.

I remember wanting his name to be called so badly. I so wanted him to feel important and as special as I know him to be. We all want to feel unique, appreciated, and loved. It is a human need, and one so important for a child. This world is a harsh place, and it will get even more difficult for him as the years go by. I want him to feel so loved, so valued, so confident – ready to take on all the disappointments and difficulties that may come his way. But one thing I know with certainty, is that these little boys do always feel very much loved and appreciated by their family. But even more, I know they are growing up with the knowledge that God loves them. And what a gift it is for us, who love them so dearly, to know that God even knows their names.

What a beautiful comforting verse. “I have you engraved on the palms of my hands.” Each of us is known by Him and are always before Him. How unique, special, and cared for that should make us feel! We may not always be honored enough or valued enough to have our names called by those around us, but we are called by name by the One who created us, loves us, and wants the best for us. He knows us. He thinks we’re really special! What great assurance that gives me to know that He knows and loves these 2 precious, little boys and that He holds them in his hands.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the knowledge that our names are engraved on the palms of your hands, and that our lives are ever before you. Life here on this earth can sometimes be difficult and painful, and our bodies and minds can become weary, but the assurance of your presence and love can carry us through. Thank you for always loving us so unconditionally. Amen