8th August 2024

Sacred dependence

One night in January, my pregnant sister was rushed to the hospital when her water broke. After hours of labour, she was eventually given a Caesarian section, for it was taking too long to deliver the baby. Finally, we were invited to view the baby for the first time. He had pinkish skin and weighed 7.5 pounds.

Watching him, I had an epiphany. Every person on earth was once like this tiny, helpless baby—the strongest boxers, fastest athletes, and smartest scientists! We were all small, vulnerable, and dependent on the caress of our caregiver. Even Jesus—who sacrificed his life to save humanity—was once a baby.

And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was ‘on him.’  Luke 2:40 (NIV).

No matter who we grow up to be, we do so with the guidance of the people who raised us. These people are living examples of God’s love and grace. We were created to live in interdependence with others. No matter how small we were as babies, we grow stronger with the strength and wisdom the Lord blesses us with each day.

Prayer
Our creator and heavenly Father, we humble ourselves before you as we remember that we came into this world as vulnerable babies who couldn’t have grown strong without your loving presence. We acknowledge the path you set for us, and we continue to seek your guidance as we desire to follow your will. This we pray in the mighty name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Study by Jessica Joy Pamor

First published on 6 March 2024 in GCI Update Devotionals https://update.gci.org 

About the writer:
Jessica Joy Pamor is the GC Pili Youth Leader, Bicol, Philippines

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