The intensity of love is often revealed in moments of vulnerability. A few years ago, my daughter, a runner like myself, pushed herself to her limits during a cross-country race. I watched her, tracking her progress, her breathing, her stride. I witnessed her struggle, her determination to achieve a personal record. Then, at mile two, she collapsed.
Hearing the news from a friend, I ran to her. She lay there, dehydrated, exhausted, spent. All I could do was hold her, cradling her in my arms until the paramedics arrived. She recovered quickly, but the image of her vulnerability, and the profound love I felt in that moment, remains etched in my memory.
This experience brought to mind the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15. The son, having squandered his inheritance, returns home expecting little more than a servant’s position. Yet, his father sees him “while he was still a long way off,” and filled with compassion, runs to embrace him.
This, I believe, reflects the intense love of God. When we are down – exhausted, broken by failure, burdened by sin, or simply weighed down by the world – He doesn’t wait for us to become perfect. He sees our struggle, our need, and runs to us with open arms.
This image of a loving God is echoed in Nehemiah 4:14: “Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.” Nehemiah understood that the battle was not just about rebuilding walls but about fighting for the future of families and faith. Like Nehemiah, we too face battles in our lives – for our families, our ministries, our causes. And like Nehemiah’s people, we do not fight alone. God sees us, strengthens us, and offers his unwavering support.
In our own endeavors, whether leading a ministry, running a non-profit, or simply seeking support, we often push ourselves to the limit. We strive to meet the needs before us, sometimes to the point of exhaustion. But in those moments, it’s crucial to remember that God sees our efforts, our dedication, and our struggles. He is running toward us, ready to offer comfort and strength when we falter.
Funding ministries, like many acts of service, requires faith. We share our vision, trusting that God will provide. And when we feel depleted, we must allow ourselves to rest in His presence, trusting in His unwavering love and provision.
On that day at the race, I longed to absorb my daughter’s pain. While impossible, I could be present. I could run to her. I could hold her. It was a profound gift to offer comfort in her moment of weakness.
This, I believe, is a glimpse into the heart of God’s intense love for us. Wherever you are today – running strong, pushing through exhaustion, or feeling utterly depleted – know that God sees you, loves you intensely, and is running toward you with arms wide open.