{Way Twelve ~ Love Protects}

I clearly remember the first time another toddler pushed MY toddler.  After carefully handing him over to the qualified childcare worker, I watched him waddle to the middle of the room.  While surveying the play area, another little guy blindsided mine, pushing him to the ground.  Something different welled up inside of me.  This nurturing, loving, caring mommy felt claws extend out her fingertips.

Even though Huggies softened his fall, he fell, none-the-less.  He fell because an eager same-aged being decided, for whatever reason, Alex needed to go down.

As I watched for the tearful reaction I expected, Alex simply rolled over onto his hands and knees (as only a toddler can do) and pushed himself to a standing position.  To my surprise, there were no tears.  It was as though he dusted himself off and went about his business.  I, however, felt like hurdling the gate, sprinting toward the one who cause my little man to fall. I just wanted to “talk”.

It’s so funny, even now, nearly 7 years later, as I type the account, my typing speed increased, my heart began beating a shade faster and my respirations jumped a notch or two.  This momma bear was poised and ready to protect her one and only.

The desire to protect is still a huge part of being a mommy.  How I protect has changed as Alex has aged, but the desire is still a strong one.  In fact, this week presented with an opportunity to protect my sweet little man.  I even believe, no, I’m totally sure, I will long to protect him even when he has his own family.  Now, I know my role will be different, but the desire will still lodge deep within me.

Love protects.

Switch gears…

Those of us who are blood-bought believers are HIS children.  Because of the fall, we walk our created home targeted.  We walk, however, warned,

“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” ~ 1 Peter 5:8 (NLT)

but we don’t walk alone.

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” ~ Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV)

We don’t walk seeking justice,

“You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.’ But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” ~ Matthew 5:38-39 (NASB)

but we walk avenged…

“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”says the Lord. ” ~ Romans 12:19 (NIV)

What a wonderful Daddy…

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