Mary is my buddy. I see her twice a day. We hang out together. Our relationship is one that I have spent time nurturing. It’s important.
Mary is a baby calf that was rejected by her mother. For the past six weeks, every morning and night, either Shannon or I feed Mary two large bottles of milk. We will continue to do this for the next two and a half months until she’s ready to be weaned.
Whenever Mary sees us, she comes running. At first, I thought she would run to us just for food but now I know it is much more than that.
While the other calves have mothers that guide, care, and show them affection, Mary does not. That’s where Shannon and I fill the void.
Last night, after eating, instead of returning to the herd, Mary rested her head in my lap so I could scratch her long neck. As I rubbed Mary’s ears, neck, and back, I saw her visibly relax. For me, it was a beautiful moment, because I could tell Mary knew she was not alone. I truly believe she understood she was loved, and cared for, and most importantly, she mattered.
Much like Mary spends the day in a herd of cows but feels alone, many people experience life the same way. They shop in grocery stores, walk through malls, and sit in restaurants, surrounded by people but deep down, they know they are alone. They feel as if they are nothing more than a meaningless face in a sea of faces.
What exacerbates this sense of loneliness is the fact that the world of Covid has dramatically limited our face-to-face interactions. And wearing masks, while incredibly important, only increases this feeling of separation.
While there may be moments when you too, feel alone and cut off from others, know that you are not. That’s because, in both the Old and New Testaments, we find God’s promise to always be a constant presence in our lives. God says, “I will never leave or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31 & Hebrews 13)
In other words, in a time when so many feel completely isolated and alone, we must remember the One who created, redeemed, and sustains us, loves us too much to walk away. God is with you this very moment. And with God by your side, you can face whatever the world sends your way.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, in those times when I struggle, let me feel your guidance, comfort, and peace. Remind me of your continual presence. Help me remind others. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Right now, God is with you. You will never walk through life alone. You matter. That’s a good thing.
Also, as soon as the eastern sky begins to show light, I will be out in the pasture feeding Mary and making sure she knows she’s not alone. This will be a very good day.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 