A Silver Dollar and a Father's Love

     There was a bright silver coin in Dustin's hand, drawing my eye as I walked in. "What is that?" He let me hold it. It filled my palm. It was heavy and thick with a beautiful engraving of lady liberty. She seemed more beautiful and striking than I've ever perceived her because of the conversation we just had with Dustin's grandfather (or Papa, as we call him). He described an America founded on the principles of freedom, liberty, equality, and the value of human life; words that don't describe America any more. I don't feel free because I feel like I am being watched. Privacy is a pipe dream. Concerning this country, I feel a subtle tension, paranoia, and a general hopelessness that those with money and power are destroying this country and the planet. But the America Papa described... that is a place I want to be. Those are the ideals I can get behind. Those are the ideals I was taught in school.
     "Papa gave it to me." Dustin said proudly.
     "Oh, nice!" I replied, still observing the trinket.
     "You should hear him tell you why."
     Papa smiled and began, "It's a reminder that you are loved, and whenever you see it, you can be sure that your Papa is praying for you."
     Tears began welling in my eyes. "That is so meaningful. I really love you guys." I was a bit choked up. This object was quite literally a token of his love. Then we stood up to pray for our move to Israel. As we held hands and Papa began praying, I felt a strong sense of peace and security. I felt a fatherly protection like I've never felt before. It reminded me of the confidence I had when I was a child. Only, this was different. It was ethereal and transcendent. It was all encompassing, like I could take it with me. It was a defining moment. I didn't think it was possible to feel that confidence again... knowing what I know about the world and its corruption...
     It was a strengthening moment; one I didn't know I desperately needed. I felt encouraged and empowered and light.
     We reflected on the experience when we got home and Dustin began to make parallels between Papa's love and the love of God--how He is our father. And then it hit me all at once: that was God. Through Papa, God was expressing His Fatherly love for me. He was reassuring me; giving me absolute peace and confidence for our journey halfway across the world.

     One thing I've been realizing lately is that humans are expressions of God. What better way is there for God to express Himself to us than through living, breathing, tangible human beings? We are created in His image and likeness. Therefore, we represent Him on Earth. We are all part of one Body, only functioning properly in relationship with each other. The beautiful thing about being a believer is that we are full of love from the Source of All Love. When we give it, we are giving from an abundance and never a lack.
     Never underestimate the effect of your love on others. It is the most powerful and profound gift you can ever give to another human being.

     And remember that God loves you with a protective, overflowing love. He is not thinking about your failures. He does not hold your sins over your head. He is not focused on your problems. He sees you and loves your very being. His love is not conditional upon your self improvement. And there is nothing that can separate you from that love--not one thing. You may think that your lifestyle or your choices or your screw-ups disqualify you from that love ...especially you Christians who feel you should know better... but none of that separates you from His love. You don't have to long for His love because it is already yours. You have His heart. Accept it. Rest in the truth that He is smiling an eternal smile of deep affection just for you.