My Child

My child, I see you. Tendrils matted to your sweaty, tear-stained cheek.  Where the salty streaks tell of pain embedded deep.  Within you, I see.  I see the dreams that invade your memories with not-so-subtle lies that the Enemy tries to bind and keep.  The injustices that line your sleep.  I see the look of shame as you're reminded of atrocities that tried to overcome you but I held them off and kept you strong.  The dark shadows that pranced across the walls of your mind, but it was your heart that has always been mine.  And it's the heart that sets the pace for the mind, so I sowed within you the foundation of truth.  The truth that you're mine.

My child, I see you.  I see how my dreams for you have become intwined in yours.  How my will for your life is quick to your lips and the injustices of this life have equipped you for battle.  I see the look of awe as you realize it's me who's holding your hand, as we paint hope across the walls of those still standing still, ready to drop their chains.  To embrace me wholeheartedly, you have, not timidly as before but now more of a hug that refuses to tread lightly.  For this walk that we've been on is anything but ephemeral.  My child, we have eternity.

And it is there, also, that I see you--the future, yes, but for me it runs together.  I see you, my child.  In my arms, I hold you secure, as we laugh and travel the New Jerusalem.  And I love causing you to grin, as I show you the sharks and with them, how to swim.  Oh and the lions, (I'm partial to the lions!), we laugh and point as we watch them embark, side by side with the lamb, not frightened.  And this is my kingdom, and you are my child!

My child.  I like saying this.  And please don't be so quick, to loosen your grip on my hand when you can't see the plan.  When pain overtakes you and you have trouble seeing to tomorrow.  I ask you one thing.  To look up.  For I am here.  Squeeze my hand and trust me because I am here and I see you. Open your eyes, and see Me.  Forever mine.  Forever free.