My niece has a big heart, especially when it comes to animals.  Actually, Sara has two professions: the one that pays the bills: nurse, and the one that feeds her soul: animal rescuer.  As the animal population in their  yard grows,  my nephew Derrin continues to build fences.  The last time I was there I looked at playful goats, waddling ducks, and furry bunnies.  They also have three (or is it four?) dogs and a cat.  Her biggest rescue, however, was an aging horse named Cody.  She drove across the state to save him.  Her heart immediately connected with that ol’ horse.  Cody found loving care with Sara, and began to grow healthy again.  Recently,  Cody succumbed to a brain tumor and weak heart, but because of a big heart, his last days on earth were good ones.  I’m so proud of Sara.  She makes me think of a quote from Dr. Seuss, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

God has a big heart too.  He also goes to great lengths to rescue someone who’s hurting.  “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1 ESV) God knows when our hearts are troubled. He knows exactly what we need.  “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3 NIV) He doesn’t want us to ever feel like we’re facing a crisis alone.  When we ask him to come into our hearts, he is always with us. “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” (Zephaniah 3:17, NLT) When the storms of life blow in our direction, we can step into a safe place: the expansive heart of God.

Things to do today:

1. Explore the expansive heart of God.
2. Read another blog called You Are Not Alone and listen to songs ‘You’re Not Alone’ and ‘Good, Good Father.’