One of my first Confirmation students used to write a lot of notes to herself. She would make note of assignments for school, telephone numbers of people to call, jobs her mother wanted her to do. But my young student didn't use a notepad or notebook. She'd take her ballpoint pen and make these notes on her hands and arms. One day she came to class looking like she had visited a deranged tattoo artist. Her hands and arms were covered with black, blue and red ink. I asked her, "Why do you write all over yourself like that?" She smiled and replied, "All of these notes are important and I don't want to forget a single one of them. This is how I remember what I'm supposed to do."
Remembering is important. Bring remembered is even more important. In counting down the days to my retirement, I was struck by the fact that there aren't too many weeks left until we celebrate Thanksgiving, and then onto Christmas and the New Year. For many people this time of the year is one filled with joy and happiness. But for others, the upcoming holidays are incredibly lonely. Some will mourn the loss of loved ones. Others will miss dear friends who have moved away. It's hard to live when you're all alone.
I guess that's why I like Isaiah 49:16 - "See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands." You are remembered by God! The Lord has done better than writing your name on His hand - you and all who belong to Him are engraved on His palms. This engraving is permanent. It matches the steadfast love that God has for each of His children. Trust in God's promises. Believe that He is with you and watches over you. With eyes of faith, look at His hands!
