Lostness

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We must be lost before we can be saved.

There is something special about your firstborn. Not only is there the grandeur and sacredness of life, but you have in your hands something that is uniquely and wonderful yours as your very own possession.

Isn’t it strange just how hard you can love these little lives? Jimmy was that way. He invaded our privacy while I was in college. That chubby little guy charmed his way into our hearts bringing a joy I had never known before.

I hated to be gone even for a moment – everyday he would do something new and different – all babies do this, but we parents always thinks ours are unique. I called it the joy of discovery – and he was a joy.

He was approaching three when we moved close to the mountains. It was a lovely setting to finish school and raise our little family. One evening I called Jimmy to supper, but as I looked his sandbox was empty – he was no where to be found.

Curbing my panic I searched everywhere, calling his name frantically. All I could think of was my little guy lost somewhere in those mountains. I dreaded the thought of him being all night lost.

Fortunately, a patrolman came by at that moment. I quickly explained the problem, and he immediately radioed the Rescue Unit for help. As they prepared a search party, I had to face the realization that the most precious thing in my life was lost. To tell you the truth I have never before or since experienced such desperation.

The neighbors soon all gathered around. One of them, a father of seven, said, “Relax, my kids will find him.” I must admit relaxation was not part of my program at that particular moment. But off his kids went.

I joined the other adults in looking for Jimmy. The shadows lengthened, and with each passing moment, I became more and more concerned. It looked like we would have to mount a major search in the foothills behind our house.

Just as I had almost given up hope, someone shouted and sure enough here came one of my neighbor’s kid with Jimmy in tow. I can’t tell you my relief. But you know, this little lad of mine was unconcerned as a lark – you see, he didn’t realized he was lost!

This is much like us – we don’t know we are lost, so our Father has to find us. He is good at that you know.  There are none better. And having found us, He keeps us. Amazing!