Being a Safe Person
by Keri Wyatt Kent
posted 10/31/2008
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In other words, fear and love are opposites. So we must choose which will rule our hearts. And that choice will affect not only our relationship with God, but our ability to love others. We cannot give away what we don't have.
One of the greatest gifts we can give the children we care for is the gift of being a safe person. We want our classrooms to be safe places for children, but are we safe people? It's hard to be a comfort to others when you are ruled by fear. The safest people, when it comes to relationships, are people who listen to the voice of love enough to know that they are beloved. That enables them to see others in the same way.
Henri Nouwen wrote, "The greatest gift my friendship can give to you is the gift of your Beloved-ness. I can give that gift only insofar as I have claimed it for myself."
Before you can communicate God's love to the children you minister to, you must know it in your own life. You are God's beloved, and that perfect love drives out fear. And enables you to call forth the beloved-ness of every person you encounter.
Listen to the voice of love. And as Jesus so often told us, "Do not be afraid."
Keri Wyatt Kent is the author of six books, a retreat leader and speaker. Learn more at www.keriwyattkent.com, or connect with her on Facebook.
© 2008 Keri Wyatt Kent
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