In the last few weeks, a highlight of my week has been to take my 20-month-old granddaughter to a mother and toddlers’ group. She’s quite independent (now she’s got used to it) and loves to run around exploring the various activities while ‘Grandma’ watches from a distance.
Occasionally I’ll hear a little voice call ‘Help, Grandma!’ maybe from the top of the slide, or as she struggles to put on a painting apron. Usually by the time she calls, I’m on my way to her as I haven’t left her out of my sight and have anticipated the problem before the call comes, but how lovely it is that she calls! That she realises her need and recognises that I can and am ready to help. Eventually, I know from experience, she will grow out of this stage, preferring to go it alone, too proud to call for assistance, but for now I’m enjoying being needed.
God knows when we need help. He watches over us as Psalm 121 assures us,” … He never dozes or sleeps. The Lord will guard you; He is by your side to protect you” (verse 4-5). But He loves us to show that we need Him by calling out to him. We recognise that His strength and power can do anything and because He loves us, He is always willing to help. Of course, just as with grandchildren, often he will encourage us to do it ourselves, building up our resilience and confidence for the future, but He will be there beside us all the way.