“An honest answer is like a warm hug.” (Prov 24:26 The Message)

We had been shop hopping and window-shopping throughout downtown Juneau. It was pouring rain, we were all tired, and I was feeling a bit discouraged because just that morning I had been the cause of my family not being able to meet their goal of climbing to the top of Mount Roberts.

In addition we were feeling rather out of place. Many of the stores we visited were asking astronomical prices for their artwork and jewellery. Definitely for the rich! Then came the final blow: I found a beautiful black cross in one of these stores. Now, I have been interested in wearing a cross around my neck ever since one of our subscribers from Texas sent us beautiful necklaces, handmade by her pastor. I had received many comments on that particular cross, and this had offered me many opportunities to share about the One who made my life worth living for. As a result, I was immediately interested in this particular piece.

Because I didn’t see any gold or silver on the necklace, I assumed it would be reasonably priced. Especially since there was a sign over the display advertising 60% off! I approached the counter and asked about that cross.

“Very good choice, sir,” responded the salesman as he removed the cross from the display.

I took his comment as a bad omen. No one would answer in that way for an inexpensive item! As he turned the cross over, I noticed that underneath it was made of pure gold. I knew that even at 60% off it would be way out of my minor league, and sure enough, it was!

That’s when I began cross hunting in earnest. I had seen some beautiful jade carvings, and I could just visualize myself wearing a cross made out of jade; but though we went through several more stores, nothing was forthcoming. Feeling soggy and discouraged, I uttered a small prayer out loud: “If only I could find a simple, jade cross! But Thy will, Lord, not mine.”

As we entered the next boutique, a green Jade cross was immediately brought to my attention at a price that would not deplete my pocketbook. I couldn’t help but notice the sweet sounds of Christian music emanating from the stores’ loudspeakers. It meant only one thing: The shopkeeper was a Christian! The Lord had granted my request. I could not help but thank Him profusely.

Later on, I asked God why my simple, unimpressive plea had been answered while at other times my prayers seemed to go by unnoticed. The answer was astounding: “Consider it a hug from heaven.”

At times when we need encouragement, expect these hugs from heaven. But like anything in life, we need to take the time to really notice and savor them. We are never alone in our quest. The One who loves us is always there for us.

“I can anticipate the response that is coming…” (Rom 7:14 The Message)

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matt 28:20 NIV)

“God’s love is meteoric, his loyalty astronomic, His purpose titanic, his verdicts oceanic. Yet in his largeness nothing gets lost; Not a man, not a mouse, slips through the cracks. How exquisite your love, O God! How eager we are to run under your wings, To eat our fill at the banquet you spread as you fill our tankards with Eden spring water. You’re a fountain of cascading light, and you open our eyes to light.” (Ps 36:5-9 The Message)

Do you feel discouraged, broken down and emptied of strength? Come to Jesus and welcome His embrace. It will fill you with courage and hope. He is faithful! Hallelujah!

Rob Chaffart