Object permanence is an expression used by psychologists of a child’s ability to understand that objects still exist even if they are no longer visible.
Up to about four months babies don;t have the capacity to believe something exists if they can’t see it. If you hide a toy it no longer exists as far as they are concerned. They reach a stage where if you hide a toy, they will keep on looking for it. They realise objects exist even when you don’t see them.
This is a sign of Christian maturity: when we continue to believe in God’s love even when we don’t see it or feel it. We remember and recall. As we believe inb the sin even when it is not shining, we continue to believe in God love even in times of darkness when we don’t feel his love.
Nicky Gumbel – UK Vicar, Alpha Course (1955- )