I don’t know how we got on the topic, but last night my fourth grade class got to talking about some of their favorite possessions. You wouldn’t have been surprised with most of them: computer games, toys, lacrosse sticks, ipods, etc.
When one boy raised his hand, I thought for sure he would say something related to sports. I can tell already that he loves playing sports, and I’m pretty sure he’s good at whatever he plays.
So when he talked about a little plaque that hangs on his wall, I was surprised. He told the class that he loves the words to the poem Footprints In The Sand, which are printed on the plaque. To be honest, I was so surprised by what he said, I think I just mumbled thanks and moved on to the next kid.
Later, I began thinking about the old expression, you can’t judge a book by its cover. This little guy really impressed me.
I’m sure you’ve seen some variation of the plaque the boy spoke about. Usually,the words are printed over some beach scene like the one above. Maybe a little sentimental, the words are nonetheless quite moving. They are a reminder to each of us that, when times are tough, that’s when the Lord is most available to us. Sadly, we more often than not don’t take advantage of His nearness.
We try to solve everything on our own, and we fail to trust in His promise. I hope that when you read these familiar words, you’ll remember just how loved you are by God.
Last night, my fourth grade student reminded me of that very fact, and I’m grateful to him for sharing what’s most important to him. Out of the mouths of babes….
One night a man had a dream.
He dreamed He was walking along the beach with the LORD.
Across the sky flashed scenes from His life.
For each scene He noticed two sets of footprints in the sand.
One belonging to Him and the other to the LORD.
When the last scene of His life flashed before Him,
he looked back at the footprints in the sand.
He noticed that many times along the path of His life there was only one set of footprints.
He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times of His life.
This really bothered Him and He questioned the LORD about it.
LORD you said that once I decided to follow you, you’d walk with me all the way.
But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times
in my life there is only one set of footprints.
I don’t understand why when I needed you most you would leave me.
The LORD replied, my precious, precious child,
I Love you and I would never leave you!
During your times of trial and suffering when
you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.
