Newborn elephants are susceptible to attacks from predators
like lions and hyenas. As a mother elephant gives birth,
the herd gathers to protect her and the newborn.
My daughter’s family is going through a difficult time. For
us, gathered elephants symbolize the protection her community
gives her by their prayers. A small wooden elephant
sits by my kitchen sink. My daughter’s friend gave her two
small elephant figurines when she moved away, knowing that
the days ahead could leave
my daughter vulnerable.
The elephants serve as a
reminder that she is not
alone. When she feels overwhelmed
by her situation,
the elephants remind her of the community that will support
her with prayer whatever comes her way.
When a hard day hits, my daughter gathers her community
by texting me, her sisters, and her friends who
immediately surround her with prayer.
Scripture tells us to be alert because evil prowls like a
roaring lion. But God has not left us defenseless in our times
of vulnerability and pain. In those times, we can ask others
to gather around us and pray for God’s powerful presence to
bring relief. | 
