"Just Slide Down...I’ll Catch You!"

It was a bright summer day, perfect for haying. She was six, riding home from the hayfields, lying on top of a huge wagonload of hay. She lay on her back, face to the sun, watching puffy white clouds drift across the blue sky. It was glorious! But then the wagon stopped. She looked around and could see no one! Her father’s voice called: "Come on down." She peeked over the edge of the hay. It was so far! How would she ever get down? "I’m scared!"

Her father replied, "Just slide down...I’ll catch you." Her trust in her father’s caring love for her was strong enough to overcome her fear. She slid; he caught her in his arms. What a happy embrace!

This, too, is a picture of our trusting relationship with the Father. Problems loom with no solution in sight; we feel caught in situations beyond our control. We feel alone, full of fear and worry.

This is the time to remember how much you are loved by God - infinitely, totally, completely. He has his arms open, waiting for you to let go of your fear, let go of your worries and "slide down" into his loving arms. Another happy embrace!

By Mary Buckley CSJ
Drawing by Geraldine Thompson CSJ