Last week, my son sent me a video of his seven-year-old daughter learning how and then succeeding in riding her two-wheeled bike for the first time.

As he recorded the video, my daughter-in-law was running very close next to my granddaughter, gently giving her encouraging words and then proudly complimenting her on her success. I could see her loving support as I watched the video.

As this protective mom ran next to her daughter, she made sure she kept her safety helmet on, and despite the increased speed my granddaughter began to take as she built her confidence in her newly-learned skill, her mom did not let her move out of her reach, running almost in a full sprint to keep her safe.

Isn’t that what Jesus does for us in trying to keep us safe in life? He is present beside us on this journey, keeping us close, helping and encouraging us on the way. How blessed we are to be so loved.

By: Deacon Tom Gryzbek