It had been abandoned.

I discovered the little kitten under the tarp of some of our back deck furniture, scooped it up, and made a mad dash to the closest vet’s office for help.

The vet looked it over like he was examining a raw potato and finally announced that the kitten probably wouldn’t survive.

He guessed that it was less than a week old. Its eyes were still closed and some of its umbilical cord was still attached to its little tummy. At that point, he couldn’t even discern if the tiny ball of fluff was a male or female.

He surmised that the mom cat was probably a young, first-time mother who wasn’t quite sure what to do with its offspring. Unfortunately, without the care of its mother, it was unlikely this kitten would make it.

“The best you can do is keep it warm, give it kitten formula every two to three hours, and call around to see if any shelter can take it off your hands,” he said.

“I would recommend putting it inside your shirt against your skin,” the vet added. “Holding it against your chest will help bring its body temperature up and keep it warm.”

I immediately complied.

Once home, I continued to carry the kitten against my chest as I placed calls to various shelters and friends trying to find help.

In between the frenzy of phone calls and text messages, the Holy Spirit reminded me that I was very much like the little kitten.

My Heavenly Father holds me the same way.

“He tends his flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart…” (Isaiah 40:11 NIV)

When I’ve felt abandoned or worthless, He carries me close to His heart.

When I have felt alone and unseen, He holds me close to His heart.

When I have been heartbroken or misunderstood, scared or lonely, He keeps me close to His heart.

I squeezed the little ball of fur within my shirt gently as I soaked in this sweet truth.

My heart went out to this little creature even more after that and I was determined to help it find a forever home and thrive.

Just like my Heavenly Father so graciously has done for me.

Until next time, Grace and Glory!

P.S. Curious to know what happened to the kitten?

SHE is currently living her best feline life! I was able to connect with a very sweet lady who had the expertise, time, and resources to nurse “Miss Birdie Lou” to health.

Once little Birdie was strong enough to be adopted, a dear friend of mine scooped her up and has given her a forever home (and, knowing my friend, I’m certain she continues to carry Birdie close to her heart, too).