Listen Now
God speaks to us in different ways, and for me it seems to be with a single word. So often only one word will come to mind when I’m praying about a subject or describing an event. While this issue was coming together, the word “encircle” came to me. To me, it feels like a warm word. The dictionary says it means “to put in a circle; surround.”
Adoption is bringing a child into the circle of a family. That’s true for earthly families as well as for our spiritual family. God encircles us with His presence and draws us in. No one can say that He brings in only the good kids. He sees us for what we are − broken, full of problems − a mess! He’s willing − actually, He’s desperate − to take us in.
In this issue you’ll meet Nicole, a mother who has taken in a number of kids with problems. The more I learn about her, the more I know that she and her husband show their children (and others) what God is like. No matter what those kids do, they are encircled with love. Don’t you think if we could watch them on a webcam, we’d see lots of hugs in her home?
Hugs are human circles, aren’t they? Arms wrapped in a circle, drawing people in so they feel the warmth of touch.
That brings us to the article about the things we say. Do your words “hug” those you love? Yes, that’s something we need to think about. What we say to others really does matter. Words can encircle people and make them feel wanted, or words can be like barbed wire warning people not to get close!
I wish I knew you personally. I’d like to encourage and give you a hug − encircle you with acceptance. I know that may not be possible in this life. I’m so glad because of Jesus we can be family forever (a peek at what eternal life means). Let me share this prayer-poem and give you a hug.
Love and hugs,
Crystal Wacker
Keep protection near. And danger afar.
Keep hope within. Keep doubt without.
Keep light near. And darkness afar.
Keep peace within. Keep evil out.
