Only You

There's something unique about being the only person (or one of two) who can satisfy another person's psychological needs. I usually use the term "need" lightly because there are very few things we truly need and we often use the term "need" as a substitute for a very strong want. However, in the case of a two year old who wakes up in the middle of the night crying for his momma, I think that's need.

It's kind of strange when you think about it: God made these little people to be in primary community with their parents. Nothing cures a boo boo like a kiss from mom (today I was presented with the conundrum of a boo boo on a bare bottom). Nobody will do in a crowd of strangers but dad. Bedtime kisses have to be from us both. Things aren't quite right around the house when daddy is gone for more than just a normal work day. I recently read that research is showing psychological benefit for newborn babies when dad is around more.

We are the first thing our little boys and girls experience of stability and security. Strength and peace of mind are the result.

Really, though, we're just designed to be a faint shadow of our never-changing, always loving and always-present Heavenly Father.

How sweet the name of Jesus sounds

In a believer's ear

It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds,

And drives away his fear.