“Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands; your walls are continually before me.” ~~ Isaiah 49: 15 – 16

I received an e-mail from a friend today that included a reference to these verses from Isaiah. I don’t think it was a mere coincidence as this passage has been etched on my mind and I have been pondering its words for the last few days. It speaks of God’s intimate care for us and serves as a reminder of God’s comforting presence in the midst of difficulty and darkness.

I was first introduced to this passage by my youth leader in Philadelphia when I was in the eighth grade. She shared these words with me when she prayed for me the night before I had foot surgery. These verses eased my anxiety and I went to the hospital the next day resting comfortably in God’s hands. At other difficult times on my journey when it seemed that God was absent, I have recalled this passage and reminded myself that God will never forget me.

My home church pastor in Indiana has one of these “I Will Not Forget You” resin figurines on her desk. The hand is holding and supporting a child who is sleeping peacefully. There is an amazing sense of security there. The image is comforting and reassuring – there is no need to fear; God is holding you. Whatever your circumstances are today, may these verses and this image bring you peace and rest.