Protection from a Distance

My four-year-old had become quite insistent about walking into school alone, adamantly declaring that he could do it himself. But I knew that an independent, spirited preschooler and a busy parking lot did not mix. Griffin couldn’t understand why I had to walk with him. In an attempt to not extinguish his self-sufficient spirit, I came up with a plan that ensured his safety, but let him think he was walking by himself.

Upon arriving in the school parking lot, he would unbuckle, put on his backpack, get out of the van, and wait for me. Together, we looked for cars and decided if it was safe to cross. While I remained next to the van, he crossed the parking lot. Little did he know that I kept my eyes on him the whole time and quickly followed at a distance—far enough behind so he didn’t see me.

My son thought he was “the stuff.” It was wonderful to see his confidence soar. He followed the same path each day and I protected him without his knowledge.

Our heavenly Father walks behind us too. Psalm 139:5 reminds us, “You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.” (NLT) In moments of confusion and busyness, He knows which way we are going and is there to protect us even without our knowledge, just as I protected my son without his knowledge.

Whether you are in a waiting room at a doctor’s office, at your desk at work, riding the bus, or sitting in your living room—God has made a way for you to get through the diagnosis, project, busyness, and responsibilities. He’s already gone before you and will guard you from behind.

This truth is especially comforting to me as my children grow up. We can’t stand in the ‘parking lot’ and watch our kids everywhere they go. But we can trust that their heavenly Father is there with them, leading the way and bringing up the rear. Whether they are facing a tough exam, driving for the first time alone, or dealing with a bully at school, God is with them.

In the circumstances that surround you and your kids today, in the events that are scheduled on your calendar, take comfort in knowing God is there. He has gone before you—and your children—and follows you too.