Leaning On the Shoulders of Love

Deuteronomy 33:12 About Benjamin he said: “Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders.”

John 13:23 One of them, the disciple whom Jesus loved, was reclining next to him. 24Simon Peter motioned to this disciple and said, “Ask him which one he means.” 25Leaning back against Jesus, he asked him, “Lord, who is it?”

As I read this scripture this morning from Deuteronomy 33, I could not help but think of my pastor’s sermon yesterday about John, the disciple whom Jesus loved. My pastor’s sermon was about how John referred to himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved because John knew it was the best title of all the titles John had. John also knew it was a title we could all have: The disciple whom Jesus loved. Yet, my pastor also described the scene at the Last Supper where John was leaning on Jesus. I pictured John leaning on Jesus’ shoulders knowing he was loved, and it was a safe place to be. A restful place where one could cast all their worries on the shoulders who loves them.

What fond memories do you have of leaning on someone’s shoulders knowing you were loved and safe?  I remember sitting in church next to my mom and leaning on her shoulders. It felt safe and I felt loved.  So much more does Jesus want us to lean on His shoulders when times are tough.

I set this blog post aside this week to focus on getting plans set in place for my upcoming knee replacement surgery. It was a busy week between work and my child having a flat tire on a rural highway and calling me to come help. I learned to lean on Jesus’ shoulders when I learned the girl who was going to be my caregiver during the two weeks of my surgery backed out and now, I have no one to go with me. Leaning on Jesus’ shoulders for wisdom about my knee.

Today marks the twentieth anniversary of 9/11. As I was sitting and listening to the names being read off, I was reminded how many lives were touched that day. Even though I did not lose anyone I felt my life changed because of that day. Since then, I learned to lean on Jesus’ shoulders through my divorce and death of loved ones. I also learned to lean on Jesus’ shoulders while I was raising my children and going to school. Chronic pain and illness are also a cause to lean on Jesus’ shoulders. He was there during the darkest nights of COVID and more recently the chronic pain which riddles my body. I know He loves me, and I sense signs of His love every day.

Another week or so has passed since I wrote this post. It was a busy week of appointments and birthday parties. There were times I was feeling overwhelmed with the stress of the upcoming surgery. Yesterday, my knee was giving me a lot of pain because I over used it. I was worried about who would be my caregiver and how I was going to pay some unexpected expenses. Suddenly the Lord spoke to me and said “when have I ever failed you? Lean on Me”. Shortly there after I learned I have a caregiver for my surgery.

Whose shoulders are you leaning on? Jesus wants you to lean on His shoulders!

Here are some books and gift ideas. If you click on a link and make a purchase I may earn a small percentage of your purchase at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

God Is My Refuge in Whom I Trust Mug Shaped stoneware mug with rich dark interior is accented with dimensional trim and uplifting words of inspiration from Scripture. 13 ounce capacity, gift boxed; safe for microwave and dishwasher. For today’s Christian home in contemporary style and design.Warm caramel; Bible verse Psalm 91:2: God is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust. On reverse side: Trust.

Don’t Waste Your Pain: Keeping Your Faith in the Midst of Chronic Pain By Myndi Orr

Leaning on the Promises of God for Moms
By Sally Clarkson / Tyndale Momentum

You, dear mother, are a hero. Every day, you serve as teacher, spiritual director, friend, and so much more to your children. In Leaning on the Promises of God for Moms, find encouragement and inspiration for your motherhood journey. On each page, beloved author Sally Clarkson provides you with the words you need at times you need them most-and gently guides you to the One who promises to be with you every step of the way.

You Are Never Alone: Trust in the Miracle of God’s Presence and Power
By Max Lucado / Thomas Nelson

You’re stronger than you think because God is nearer than you know! He’ll meet you wherever, whenever—in lonely waiting rooms, rehab centers, and convalescent homes. Into all of life’s messes and thorny thickets, he’ll come to you, without hesitation, to lift you up. Lucado demonstrates by walking you through John’s words and Christ’s miracles. 240 pages, hardcover from Nelson.