I began being responsible for looking after orphaned lambs 42 years ago, having married a farmer. I had about 12 lambs of various ages and sizes and they were all doing well and playing together, except one. Charlie was small and thin and reminded me of Eeyore in that he was always sad and stood alone with his head down. It took ages to feed him as he didn’t want the milk.

One day in a field I saw a lamb lying on the sheep’s back. From then on I sat with Charlie on my lap to feed him and cuddled him for as long as I could. After about a week of this affection, four times a day, there was a sudden change in Charlie. He took his feed readily and joined in with all the others. He grew well and was happy. The difference was because he knew he was cared for and felt secure.

As Christians we can know that we are loved perfectly and constantly by our Creator God and can be emboldened.

When bad or sad things happen to us, as they will in this earthly life, we can know the comfort and strengthening of God’s continuing presence.

“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast…? Though she may forget, I will not forget you.” Isaiah 49:15.

“I the LORD made you, and I will not forget you.” Isaiah 45:21

Jesus said, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20

Dorothy Dobson,

Crosthwaite, Kendal