The Greatest
Isn't it fun to listen to kids? I love to hear how they process things and the fun ways they explain what they have to say.
For the longest time I thought God lived in the dining table. I don't know why that popped in my head this morning, but it did and I remember it! We always talked to Him while we were there so if I remember correctly, I was on my best behavior at the dinner table.
Each time I see my grandkids they change so much. They grow taller, their features change as they lose their baby-ness and turn so quickly into young adults. I pray for them not to be changed by the harshness of the world today and to keep their sweet innocence. They just fill me with joy and love because of their shared happiness and energy!
As I write these thoughts I can't help but think of the scripture where Jesus says to the disciples, "...Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven." St. Matthew 18:3
Being humble and open to the guidance that the Lord provides us is very freeing. When we let go of our pride and grow in our obedience to His will for us, we become the kind of follower of Christ that He intends us to be.
Later in this chapter Jesus says to rid ourselves of anything that thwarts our purity. Today I feel that we are inundated with so many things that win over our thoughts and time, even our loyalty and passion: internet, drama, gossip, video games, work. People scurry about giving their time and thoughts to things that don't last, then they wake up and they wonder what happened to their life. Where did all their time go... I can't think of plucking out my eye or cutting off my hand, but I get the point very clearly. Jesus is stressing the importance of getting away from things that draw you away from Him (Matthew 18: 7-9). In the long run, where will television get you? or your work? or the hours spent on social media or video games? While Jesus sits there and twiddles His thumbs waiting on you to spend time getting to know Him better and then sharing His love with others, are you ignoring Him?
Today I think I'll draw on my inner child and see how well I can remember how to see things the way my grandkids do. I hope I find the joy and love they have. I want to know their peaceful view of all things and how they see the good in everyone. I want to remember how to be on my best behavior all the time, because God doesn't live in the dinner table, He lives in my heart. Therefore He's always with me and I want to draw from the love He gives me and be humble, generous, kind, joyful, loving, accepting-Christlike.
My prayer for you is that you can experience these things too! Take time to enjoy the love God has for you. Find your inner-child...not the wild, disobedient, bratty side, the good side! The one you had for Grandma, not Mom.
Heavenly Father, thank you so much for your patience, your love and the sacrifice of Jesus so that we can come to you with everything. The days go by so quickly and they are so full of wonderful things, but I pray those inventions and attention getters stop taking your place. Help me to grow more Christ-like and further your kingdom so you can come back quickly. In Jesus' name, Amen.
