We never walk alone...

Have you ever read the poem "Footprints in the Sand"?  Mary Stevenson's poem, "Footprints in the Sand" has been in print since the late 1940's for generations to enjoy and hold dear to their hearts. The first time I remember reading it was during my high school years. Although I found it beautiful, I didn't quite get it. My husband and I were given this poem as a wedding gift, it was beautiful yet I still didn’t quite grasp its significance…until walking with my dad.

I saw my father's footprints in the garden and all of sudden this poem came to mind. My father's gardens always look beautiful because of the tender loving care he gives them on a daily basis. One of my favorite things to see (and smell) is a freshly tilled garden. I love to kick my shoes off and feel the fresh soft dirt under my feet and between my toes. A couple weeks ago after Dad finished he had to return and connect the watering hose to provide some nourishment.
 
As I watched him enjoy the journey on the soft soil, I smiled. While it was evident he likes to walk on freshly turned over soil as much as I do ~ it was the ginger and careful way he continued straight through the garden. Once the water was hooked up he didn't turn and exit the same way he entered, but instead, continued through to the other side. I wanted to enjoy the walk but didn't want to ruin the fresh look so I "walked in my father's footsteps" through the garden.

Our heavenly Father has done the same thing for us…He sent his Son to walk the earth so we would never have to walk on new soil or circumstances alone. God is always right there ~ in good times and in bad. Sometimes we can see His footprints all around us, and other times…we have to be looking!

I honestly believed He left me when my sister was kidnapped. In my anger and frustrations I walked away from God yet He NEVER left me, but instead carried me until I was ready to see His working in my life. Thank goodness He didn’t leave me alone! His footprints were always there but “I” wasn’t looking, so all “I” saw were “my” own – once I stopped and looked outside myself…His blessings were everywhere!

I pray you take time to walk with your Heavenly Father today…He will never leave you and is always listening and caring for you! Thankfully I still have my earthly Father to walk with and visit with too…doubly blessed ~ two Fathers who love me unconditionally, who believe in me and hold me up. I thank God daily for loving and blessing me and for the wonderful parents He has used to model His love and provision.