This morning while praying for my nieces, nephews, and Godchildren, I called out each of them by name. When I got to the daughter of my brother, Mr. G, I also called out her middle name which is my mother’s first name. My brother’s nickname had been “Mr. G” since he was a baby.
I don’t know why I included my niece’s middle name when I called her out in prayer, but just like that—right after I did—the tears started flowing.
My mother transitioned over 25 years ago, and I’ve spoken her name many times since then. Starbucks knows her well because for years I used to give them her name instead of mine. 😊 “Don’t judge me!” 😄
But something was different this morning.
Maybe it was simply a moment of missing my mother. Maybe it was gratitude. Maybe it was the Holy Spirit touching a place in my heart that I didn’t even know needed touching.
There’s something precious about spending time with God in prayer. When we slow down long enough to fellowship with Him, He has a way of bringing things to the surface that the busyness of life can keep tucked away. Sometimes it’s a person. Sometimes it’s a memory. And sometimes it’s a feeling we didn’t even realize was still resting in our hearts. Prayer creates room for those moments and for God to meet us right there in them.
Some people don’t have to occupy our thoughts every day to remain part of our story. They leave something with us, and sometimes a name, a memory, a prayer, or an unexpected moment brings them back to mind.
Whatever it was, I was reminded of this: love and grief can live in us for decades. Time may move on, but love doesn’t disappear. And neither does the comforting presence of God.
Sometimes He meets us in the most unexpected moments.
SELAHPause. Reflect. Consider who Jesus is.
Peace & Blessing!