Of course that sounds like an outlandish claim. But to the extent
that we pray for God’s love to invade our small corner of the world,
an amazing change really does take place. Think now of times you
have come face-to-face with his love and faithfulness through the
people in your life. How much has that meant to you?
I think of my mom, who always had time to read to us as chil-
dren. We would all pile up in bed with her, and she would share the
treasured tales of children’s literature that she loved so well. I can
still see her face as she acted out all the parts.
I think of my mother-in-law, Marjie, who adopted me into the
Cloninger clan unreservedly. We had a Naomi-and-Ruth relationship
until the day she died.
I think of Jacque, who always makes me laugh and always shares
my tears; of Pris, who is never too busy for me; and of Lisa, who has
spent hours in prayer for me.
And I think of my dad, who always speaks life-changing words of
blessing over me. Only last week I called him. “Daddy, this is Claire,”
I said loudly, trying to get past his deafness.
“Claire, my baby,” he said. “I’ve been thinking about you all day.
Thinking about how proud I am of you. You’ve made such a good
life for your family and you’ve raised such fine children.”
I was suddenly quiet. Why had I called him? My heart was so
flooded with love and grace, I couldn’t even remember.
Oh, Father, we thank you for your life-changing love and the ways
that it invades our hearts through the love of other people. Fill us
with your Holy Spirit and empower us to love others for you. In
Jesus’ name, amen.88 CLAIRECLONINGER