Spilt Wine

Yesterday I had to take my two children to the dentist; Gracie, seven years old and Jacob, four years old. The morning started out with some excitement, Gracie and Jacob both brushing their teeth will extra vigilance in hopes to impress the dentist, but as time drew close to the appointment, the excitement began to fade and turn into anxiety and then fear. The car ride the dentist became quite and only a whisper was spoken in the visiting room. When the dentist called for both children to come in from the visiting room, fear and terror filled their eyes, both looking to me for comfort and protection. My heart broke for them, especially when Jacob in a soft whisper asked “daddy will you go with me?” There was a problem; the dental staff particularly did not want parents in the back rooms. Before they received their check ups and cleaning, I was able to embrace both of my children and reassure them that they would be ok and that I would be with them always and that there was nothing to be afraid of.

Then a thought occurred to me. I have been dealing with fear a lot too lately. I have been going through something tremendously hard, painful and scary. At times I can’t help but wonder where God is; why my prayers are not being answered, and why He is allowing me to hurt so much? But perhaps, He is there, right there with me, just like I am with my kids. I know the dentist is scary for them, and I wish they didn’t have to experience that type of fear, but in the end, it is for their own good and health. Perhaps, the same goes for me?