For Of Such As These

Introduction
As a young girl, I accepted Jesus as my Savior, but until I became embroiled in the greatest battle of my life, I never understood that Jesus longed to cradle me in my times of distress, and yearned to feel at home in my heart.
I knew the story of Jesus, but I didn’t know he would become the central figure in my own story. When I was pressed down beyond endurance, Jesus called me to sit with him, and to drench myself in his love.
“Lord, why is this happening? Have I done something unforgiveable? Am I unlovable?”
He whispered, “I loved you enough to die in your place.”
This precious moment with Jesus was the beginning of our family’s three-month long journey with God. At the time, I knew nothing about the things he would reveal nor the things he would do. I had only experienced the beginning—and not the end—of our story.
Our sojourn ingrained such a profound effect upon me that years later I continued to mourn the loss of the incomparable presence of Jesus I once possessed. One day in a conversation with my brother, I confessed my desire for the close relationship I once shared with my Savior.
“Wes, I don’t know what’s wrong. At one time, I was so close to Jesus it seemed as though I could reach out and touch him. His presence was palpable, and nothing could separate us. But now, no matter how hard I try, or how much I pray, it’s just not the same.”
His eyes, welling with tears, searched mine. “Little sister, don’t you know you’re just homesick?”
Yes, I thought. That’s it! For three long months, Jesus carried me in his arms. When I was too weak to stand, he held me upright. When I was afraid, he sheltered me. I dwelled in Jesus, and he dwelled in me. I experienced a glimpse of heaven—being at home with the Lord.
Among all the answers to prayer, and the amazing acts of kindness Jesus performed during our ninety days of oneness, he requested only one thing in return. His spirit whispered into mine, “Write these things down.”
As impossible as it seemed, I knew Jesus had assigned me a task, and my soul could never find peace until I surrendered to him. Trembling, I fell on my knees. “I don’t understand it Lord, but if you can take this pebble of a woman and make something good come from the ashes of our lives, I’ll follow your leading. Whatever happens in our situation, whether good or bad, I will write these things down and praise your name while giving you all the glory.”
Over forty years in the making, not one day passed without me thinking of my promise. I often attempted to put it away from my thoughts, and deny my assignment, but God would not allow it. He bothered my mind and held me accountable. When my work stalled, the Holy Spirit visited me at night, and reminded me of thoughts and events I had pushed from my memory. He inscribed them upon my heart until I rose to write each word down. He spoke; I listened.
For a hurting soul, a frightened mother, someone who hasn’t met Jesus, or anyone riding the waves of despair, For of Such as These is meant for you. In its pages, you will discover the steadfast power of a loving God who held our family together when it was assaulted from every corner, and an indescribable peace that continuously surrounded us.
This beautiful story of God’s unending love and unlimited power is just as relevant today as it was in 1974. Its message is simple: For whatever situation you find yourself in today, Jesus is the answer. I pray that this account of our journey will tug your spirit and hug your heart.