Maybe you resonate with this statement. Maybe you've had to make these asks of those you lead in public settings. That's OK, you're not alone. We live in most unusual days and because of that, so much feels unnatural and so out of place! 

I had the privilege today to go and meet outside with a grade 1 class from a Christian school. The kids were so happy to get outdoors and, because restrictions are somewhat different outside, we were able to sing and laugh and dance in their class bubble in these not-so-normal times.

It was fun!!!

As we paused between songs, we talked about how things have been a bit strange over the past few months and, that we can be certain God's love has remained normal! He has not gone on vacation or lost sight of us all here on planet earth. He is very aware and very present in these abnormal times. We can be sure of His constant love -- love that is all around us, no matter what circumstances life brings.

I don't think I've ever heard myself say 'normal' when describing God before!

It felt weird for sure! When I heard it come out of my mouth I thought, yeah, He is the only normalcy in life, the only always faithful, unchanging, perfect and consistent one. He is the standard of the perfect normal that heaven is.

So, for us still here on this God created earth, we can lean on the ever-present, ever-real Spirit of God, knowing that beyond any shadows in dark places, His love is with us and always for us even when all else feels so not normal and so not right!

All Around came from a morning time when I was reading Psalm 23. This chapter has long held a special spot in my heart, possibly stemming back to a difficult season in our family's life when my dad was really sick, so it was no surprise when God started talking to me again, reminding me of His always present love and kindness. 

KiDs need to know that God is personal and that He is love. He is not just capable of love, He IS love and cannot be otherwise. Love is in every aspect that flows from Him. Jesus is our amazing personal Lord, displaying Himself to us even when all of hell is watching and waiting for opportunities to destroy. When we feel the impact of trouble, God is always present, defending, protecting and comforting us as we keep holding on to His heart & ways.