Watch and Pray by Teresa Miller

Luke 21:34-38

“But watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place and to stand before the Son of man.” (Luke 21:36)

Watch and pray.

Luke 21 can be read as foreboding, but really, it is filled with hope. Keep your eyes and ears open… He is going to SHOW UP.

It was a crisp snowy morning in 2001, and Claire’s ski school class was set to take on the “Big” mountain. She crawled into bed with us and whispered how scared she was. She was five. I remember pointing through a frost-framed window and saying, “Who made those mountains?” 

A trembly, not terribly sure little voice responded, “God.” 

“When you feel scared today, ask God to help you—He’s a really big God.  He made those mountains. Watch for God and ask Him—He will be with you.”

As I look back on that day, it was some of the bravest, most faith-filled words I have ever said. It sounds so simple, but it gets harder to say as they move through their teen years, through COVID-19, heartbreak, and even disillusionment. It is my greatest faith challenge to watch for God with them in full confidence that His grace and love are sufficient.

Claire came sliding to me after ski school that day—her tiny skis forming a “pizza” stop (pizza means stop, French fries means go). She was beaming. “Mommy!  I prayed, and God helped me! I wasn’t afraid!!"  He showed up. God showed up for my precious child. My heart leaped.

Lord, give me a voice to tell my children, my loved ones, my third-grade Bible study kiddos, my MOPs mamas — anyone who will listen:  Look up!  Watch and pray … God is going to SHOW UP in your lives.

Isn’t that what Christmas is all about? He already has, He already is, and He will—show up.

Watch and pray … and fully see the width and breadth of God’s love for you. 

Teresa Miller