Just Ask

When Emily's iphone was stolen, my maternal defenses kicked right in. Funny, it doesn't matter how old your children are, those protective instincts never fade. I wrapped my arm around her and showed as best I could how sorry I felt for her undeserved loss. I hurt for her, saddened as I was reminded again that no amount of wishing or wanting could shield my dear ones from evil in our world.

And, I prayed. "Lord, I want you to somehow get that phone back for Emily." Mind you, mine are the prayers of a weakling, not a warrior. They are short and silent and usually clumsy. Worst of all, even though I've been at this long enough and am certainly old enough to know better, I did it again. Praying in one breath, in the very next I told myself the chances were slim to none of Emily ever seeing her phone again.

Was it coincidence that the police officer came to her door yesterday morning with the good news? Of course there's no way of knowing with absolute certainty one way or the other. I only know that Emily's phone is back. And, today her mother is a bit closer to learning that it's not the "power" of her prayers that changes anything. It's her Father's power and loving kindness that prompts Him to respond to even the feeblest of her requests. Somehow asking is the only requirement. He is just that good and that involved with all of us.

                     

"And Jesus stopped and called them, saying, 'What do you want me to do for you?"

      John 20:32