Hold My Hand and Walk Beside Me

It was only the eighth day of the new school year, and I was walking back to my office after visiting a fourth-grade classroom to lead a math activity.

As I passed the kindergarten rooms, the sound of a fire alarm pierced the air and the hallway lights began to flash, signaling an evacuation. I paused and waited for the kindergarteners to exit their classroom and continue to the outside door.

It was obvious their teacher had prepared them for this event, the first drill of the year. The children came out quietly and in an orderly manner as I waited for them to file out of the classroom. The next child out the door caught my eye.

Tears were streaming down her face, which showed the anguish she felt. The noise, lights, and threat of a possible fire had caused a stress reaction in the little girl, even though she remained quiet and kept moving in the direction the class had been instructed to take. Instinctively I reached down and took her hand in mine. I walked beside her down the hall, out the door, and to the assigned spot in the parking lot where the class was to assemble. When we got there, I looked down at the small child. She was no longer crying.

In fact she seemed to be fine now. I smiled at her and gave her hand a little squeeze before releasing it, and she smiled back. I could not stay with her because I had assigned duties to perform, but I was glad that she was no longer afraid.

I was pleased that my presence had brought comfort to this little one. I had not spoken a word to her. All I had done was hold her hand and walk beside her. I can certainly relate to that little girl. There have been times when I have struggled with fear and anxiety. How reassuring to know our God is always available to comfort and guide.

His hands are strong enough that nothing can snatch us away from Him (see John 10:27, 28). He promises, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18, NIV). His peace will sustain us now and for eternity.

And as we remain in His presence, His love will drive away all fear.

Marsha Hammond-Brummel