“But I am calm and quiet, like a baby with its mother. I am at peace, like a baby with its mother. People of Israel, put your hope in the Lord now and forever.” (Psalm 132:2-3)

I was blessed to spend the last week of May with my husband, children, and grandchildren in a beautiful chalet in the Smoky Mountains. Like most everyone, we had not been able to celebrate Easter or Mother’s Day together as we were practicing social distancing. I was so happy to have all my babies under one roof for five days, and we had a great time. 

My husband and I have seven grandchildren, ages 13, 11, 10, 9(2), 4, and 3. The older kids, ages 9 and up, were fairly independent. However, the younger two were not so independent. They needed help with dressing, eating, playing, sleeping, etc. With so many adults and older kids around, there was always someone to help, and usually, help was accepted.

However, there were those times that only their mother would do. We would all offer and try to help, but at those times the child was inconsolable until Mama appeared and wrapped them in her arms, as only a mother can do. For a baby, there is no greater sense of security than to be enfolded in the arms of his or her mother. And Mama, while grateful for our attempts, never seemed to be unwilling or too tired to step in.

While studying the Songs of Ascent, Psalms 120-134, I “discovered” the verse shown above and found such comfort in the words. “But I am calm and quiet, like a baby with its mother. I am at peace, like a baby with its mother.” As a mature adult, I have developed some pretty good coping skills. Sometimes I can seek comfort in the company of others. However, I know that my only true and lasting comfort is in the arms of my heavenly Father. I could imagine how secure it felt as a baby to be held by my mother and know that God’s security is even greater. He is always willing; He is always available. Even though He alone knows my deepest secrets and darkest fears, He still loves me, and He loves me more than anyone else ever could! Yes!!

On this pilgrimage through life, I may run to other resources for temporary comfort. Others may lovingly seek to comfort me. While all efforts are welcome, and while we are commanded to comfort one another, we all know this is a shallow and short-term solution unless we are pointing each other ultimately and always to the hope that only God provides.

My hope is in the Lord now and forever.

In Christ,

Judy