Tender Mercies: Prayed For & Unexpected

 In this mini episode, we share two simple stories that reveal how deeply aware God is of us, in the things we pray for and the surprises we never expected. Heavenly Father sees it all. He knows us personally, cares about the details, and reminds us we are truly loved. 

Show notes and references:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2465200

(click under transcript)

Transcript

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This podcast episode may contain brief quotes from external sources, used in a positive and respectful manner for discussion, education, and commentary. These references fall under fair use as they are not used for commercial gain, do not replace the original works, and are presented with proper context and attribution.

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are our own and those of our guests. They do not necessarily reflect the official doctrine, beliefs, or positions of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Show notes and shoutouts: (clickable link)

Callie’s favorite song: Gethsemane

References: (clickable link)

Elder Bednar quote on recognizing Tender Mercies

Transcript:

Candice Buchanan:
Welcome to the Sisters Latter-day Voices podcast mini-episode. Today, we’re talking about tender mercies. I want to start with a quote by Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He said:

“The Lord’s tender mercies are the very personal and individualized blessings, strength, protection, assurances, guidance, loving-kindnesses, consolation, support, and spiritual gifts which we receive from and because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Clare Craner:
I had heard the phrase "tender mercies" before, but I didn’t think much about it until a few years ago. Ever since then, that phrase has stuck with me. I think about it constantly—how personalized they are. If you're really looking for them every day or throughout your week, you'll start seeing how much the Lord is in your life and how aware He is of you personally.

I want to share two tender mercy stories.

The first was when we lived in Texas. I was super pregnant—like eight months along with my last baby—and one of my kids was in soccer. It was May, it was brutally hot, and the games were at one of those crazy-busy complexes with no parking. Honestly, I didn’t love going. I wanted to support my kid but was at my breaking point. I remember driving there alone, feeling overwhelmed and praying, “Please, I need a close parking spot.” It felt silly to pray about, but it mattered to me.

And guess what? I got the best parking spot of my life. I hardly had to walk. It was such a small thing, but I knew it was a gift from Heavenly Father. It was exactly what I needed in that moment, and it reminded me how much He listens and cares—even about the little things.

The second tender mercy happened just this past Sunday—Easter. We were at sacrament meeting, and during the program, the Primary children got up to sing Gethsemane, which is my youngest daughter Callie’s favorite song. She’s almost nine and has Down syndrome.

I wondered how she’d do, especially since her older sister is now in Young Women and wouldn’t be up there with her. But Callie walked up independently, scooted to the front row, and was so excited to sing. Right before the music started, she waved and said, “Hi Mom! Hi Dad! Hi Ethan!”—naming all of us.

Candice Buchanan:
Aww! 

Clare Craner:
It was so cute and sweet and innocent. Then, after they sang, the chapel was completely silent—because in our church, we don’t clap after performances. And suddenly, Callie yells, “Everybody clap!” and starts clapping herself.
 
 

The chorister gently motioned “no,” but then did the ASL version of clapping—raising her hands and shaking them side to side. And the congregation joined in, doing the silent clap for her.

It was such a pure, sweet moment. I didn’t expect it, and it made me teary-eyed. It showed how excited she was to be there and how loved she is by us, our ward family, and our Savior. After the meeting, several people—some I don’t usually talk to—came up and told me how special that moment was. It was a tender mercy for everyone who witnessed it.

It reminded me that whether we’re praying for something specific or receiving an unexpected gift of love, the Lord is always in our lives. He knows us, He sees us, and He shows His love in the most personal and beautiful ways.

Candice Buchanan:
I love that thought—you're making me cry! That is so sweet. Oh my goodness.

Well, that’s it for our mini episode today. We just wanted to remind you that God loves you, and we hope you’ll take a moment to recognize the tender mercies He’s giving you in your own life.

Till next time.