Scripture: God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! (Ephesians 3:20 MSG).

In December 1942, I was seven years old and a firm believer in Santa Claus. My one request that year was for a toy piano like the one my friend owned. I wrote my letter asking for the gift and assuring him I had been (for the last few weeks, anyway) an exceptionally good little girl. Each day waiting for Christmas to arrive seemed a month. Night after night, I dreamed of finding the little toy under the tree on Christmas morning and playing a song or two on its tiny keys.

The great morning finally arrived! To my disappointment, there was no toy piano. Instead, I found a letter from Santa explaining that, because of the war, none were available. “Perhaps next year,” he promised. But the war dragged on. In the meantime, I learned the awful truth every child must sooner or later face. Santa and my letters to him were no more.

However, I can still envision the letter he wrote me and cherish its memory to this day. The handwriting was mysteriously much like that of my mother’s, a fact I was too young and naïve to notice. The note was signed with a flourish by the great man himself, “With love, Santa.” I could imagine him taking time to write the note while he ate the cookies I had left. Because he was perfect, I trusted his explanation. When I learned cursive penmanship, I tried very hard to imitate his handwriting.

Some six years later, the same loving Santa-parents heard my wish for a musical instrument and purchased me a real piano—second-hand and out of tune, but a precious gift which has followed me all through my life as I play old hymns and Christmas carols for family, friends, and nursing home residents. Santa had not failed me. He had only waited for a better time and a better gift.

How like God! When He says “No,” I can trust that He has a better plan!

Prayer: Father God, thank You for delaying my childish wish and later surprising me with a better, far long-lasting gift. You always know best. Help me to trust You with a beautiful, child-like faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.