Hello, Little Lamb

Colleen Solomon, Ontario, Canada

My husband and I were assisting our daughter and her two sons at the airport, where they were preparing for their return flight home. We helped our daughter as she juggled luggage, located passports, and managed an active three-year-old. Tommy, our one-year-old grandson, was fast asleep in his stroller until he awakened abruptly. He panicked as he struggled to take in all the noise, bright lights, and general chaos.

I saw his expression and knew what was about to happen, so I cried out to my daughter. She quickly stooped down, cupped Tommy’s face in her hands, met his gaze, and lovingly said, “Hello, little lamb.”

In an instant his furrowed brow, turned-down mouth, and tensed-up shoulders relaxed as his whole body sighed with relief. He gave a little smile before his heavy eyelids closed again. His fear was replaced by a calm assurance and a peace that seemed to envelop him. It was a small but powerful manifestation of the trust Tommy had in his mother. Her familiar touch, voice, and presence comforted him.

Like Tommy, we all have felt fearful, uncertain, and overwhelmed. It is comforting to know that Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, calls out to us. He knows His flock, and we can trust Him completely. He lovingly said, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. … Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).

I know that during times of uncertainty we can receive comfort and assurance as we turn to the Good Shepherd with faith and trust. When I am blessed with comfort amid chaos, I like to recall that moment at the airport with my daughter and grandson. Like Tommy, I breathe a sigh of relief as my burdens are lifted. During those times, I feel a personal “Hello, little lamb” from my Shepherd.

Our one-year-old grandson panicked as he struggled to take in all the noise, bright lights, and general chaos of the airport.