Children of the Heav'nly Father

I found this poem today at this website, and I have just fallen in love with it. With what love our heavenly Father cares for His children!

Children of the Heav'nly Father

Children of the heav’nly Father

Safely in His bosom gather;

Nestling bird nor star in Heaven

Such a refuge e’er was given.

God His own doth tend and nourish;

In His holy courts they flourish;

From all evil things He spares them;

In His mighty arms He bears them.

Neither life nor death shall ever

From the Lord His children sever;

Unto them His grace He showeth,

And their sorrows all He knoweth.

Though He giveth or He taketh,

God His children ne’er forsaketh;

His the loving purpose solely

To preserve them pure and holy.

Lo their very hairs He numbers

And no daily care encumbers

Them that share His ev’ry blessing

And His help in woes distressing.

Praise the Lord in joyful numbers:

Your Protector never slumbers.

At the will of your Defender

Ev’ry foeman must surrender.

-- Lina Sandell

Never forget those who were lost ten years ago.  Take some time to be away with the Lord today and lift up the families and friends who continue to grieve.  May He still use this tragedy for His glory and the salvation of many.  Pray also for the soldiers who continue to fight in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and for the families of those who have died in combat.