The timing of the text couldn’t have been better.

My dad and I had just attended a wake and were getting back in the car. The message was from my lifelong friend Veronica Sylvest, one of the gems God has graciously placed in my life.

He knew I would need a good listener, someone to harbor my heart, and a friend to speak wisdom into my life.

I smiled as I read Veronica’s text and shared it with my dad. And now as I share it with you, know that I’ve already prayed that everyone who reads it will be flooded with the knowledge of God’s love.

“I was reminded of your dad this morning while reading a reflection of how we are all special to God and His love makes us feel special. It reminded me of your dad when  he’d take one of his grandchildren out and would tell them ‘you’re my favorite.’

“I thought that although they each knew he said that to all of them, that moment was their special time and he was completely present to just that one child in that moment. What a gift to give and to receive.

“And God being Infinite Love is that gift to each of us and because Jesus is within each of us, we can extend that gift to others. Your dad’s story from years ago helped me to grasp that in a concrete way. I’ve told that story and my own reflection of it several times since hearing it myself.

“I pray that all of our children, all of God’s children, will be open to receiving that love which makes them feel beloved and special!”

Ronny Michel may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.