It was Dinosaur Day at North Hills Mall. The giant robots were so lifelike. The mammoth models would move and growl like real dinosaurs. It was an exciting time for the kids.

At the curious age of two, Caleb was fascinated with dinosaurs. We figured he would love to see the exhibit. As we walked into the mall, his eyes lit up when he saw the giant figures from afar.

As we grew closer to the T Rex, the growl was louder and the eyes more fierce. Caleb was filled with both excitement and fear. His voice quivered when he pointed to the giant that hovered over us.

I tried reassuring him that it was only a model, and that dinosaurs don't live anymore, but he was still overwhelmed by these realistic models.

"Caleb? Hold my hand and I will help you. There's no need to be afraid." As we walked through the mall--his hand gripped to mine--he began to enjoy the displays.

"Daddy! Daddy! Look at that one!" he shouted with excitement. "Over there! Look over there!" Caleb enjoyed exhibit. Most of the time, he held firmly to my hand. Other times he gripped tightly around my neck.

He felt secure. He felt safe. His fear turned to joy when he walked hand-in-hand with his father. In many ways, God is the same way.

"For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, 'Do not fear. I will help you' " (Isaiah 41:13).

From a dinosaur model to the realities of life, fear takes on many forms. It is a very real. Although the reasons for the fear, in many cases, may only be perceived, our response is very real.

Let me encourage you to take hold of your Father's hand. Heed his words, "Do not fear." When you take your Father's hand and start walking, what was fearful will now become exciting. You can walk through the giants of life with a new confidence, a new peace, a new perspective holding tightly to your Father's hand.

Blessings for the new year!

Russell

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|  Russell Pond     <><
|  Season of Peace
|  email:  ponder@season.org
|  web:    http://www.season.org

© Russell Pond 1999
Reprinted with permission