Pulse Pounding Parenting

Jesus tells the story of a shepherd who leaves 99 safe sheep to find the one that is lost. He will search beyond the point of weariness to find the stray and bring him back safely.

I have never been a shepherd, but I have a parenting experience that parallels.

In Washington Parish, (a parish is what Louisianans call their counties) is the largest free parish fair in the state. Probably the largest free fair in the nation.

One year, when we were still homeschooling our children, we decided to attend the fair with another family. Our entourage was 4 parents and 6 children. The children being between 6 months and 6 years in age.

This was the busiest day of the fair with over 10,000 in attendance. It was bright and beautiful that day. The picture of a great day for family and fun.

All went well during most of the day, but then it happened.

As we were walking along the midway, Diana, my wife, asked me where Grace was.

Grace being our 3 year old daughter. Grace has always been easy going, quick to grin and easily distracted.

I told Diana I thought Grace was with her.

Pure panic.

Suddenly the 4 parents were in rescue mode and trying to remember to breathe. We were not sure how long she had been missing, which way she could have gone or would she find safety in the arms of a stranger. Our most unimaginable fears were cascading on us every moment and our mouths were cotton dry.

In the midst of all this there was a carnival barker who kept calling out to me, “Mister, hey Mister. Come here.” I ignored his call for about 2-3 minutes and finally turned in anger and frustration and told him to quit bothering me!

He was undeterred and asked a life changing questions, “Is this your little girl?”

There she was. Grace was at a baby pool filled with water and little rubber ducks. You were supposed to pay 50 cent to pick up a duck and see the number on the bottom. The number matched a prize. By the time we got to Grace she had collected about 17 ducks and the barker was contemplating an early retirement!

I was glad to pay the price. You see. This child who once was lost, now was found. No price for her safety and security was too steep.

We called her to us and embraced her with fears and tears both melting away!

I tried to scold her and ask her if she knew how dangerous it was to wander away from me.

She just smiled and with childlike faith said, “Daddy, I knew you would find me!”

Such is the relationship with God’s children. We get drawn away with amusements, enticed by our own desires and into trouble before we realize it.

God being the good shepherd, pursues us to bring us back to Himself. 

Not his home. 

Not Heaven. 

But to the only place of safety and security: in His arms, near to His heart.