MESSAGES
". . . Do not provoke your children to wrath,
but bring them up in the training and admonition [instruction] of the Lord"
—Ephesians 6:4 (NKJV)
Recently, I was able to attend an outdoor event that included many children of all ages. To see all the young children there with their families, enjoying their time together, was very heartwarming. I was especially blessed by a particular sight I observed.
Off to my side was a little boy playing with his father. As dad sat on the grass, his son looked at him; and with wobbly legs would walk away, picking up small bits of trash and then deposit it in the near-by trash can making sure that dad was watching. After discarding the rubbish, he would turn toward his dad focusing his big brown eyes on him, and then produce a great big smile on his trustful little face, all the while, waiting for dad's approval. The child stood and waited, for only a moment, until his dad returned the smile. As soon as he did, the child's eyes would beam with happiness which was shown by his running and jumping into his father's arms, wrestling with him, and enjoying his father's touch.
It reminded me of what Jesus told His disciples in Mark 10, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God" (vs. 14). This little boy's father received him with open arms and a smile that said, "I love you and I'm very proud of you. Come to me and let me enjoy you." The feel of his father's touch brought great comfort, joy and security to the child. Knowing that he had pleased his dad, he was able to jump into his father's arms and enjoy his presence.
Watching this little child do something that pleased his father, and then to receive such a great reward—his father's touch—brought a smile to my face. It was then God reminded me that He wants the very same relationship with us. God wants it with us, but do we want it with Him?
Mark goes on to write that Jesus took the children up in His arms, put His hand on them, and blessed them (10:16). The only way that we can experience God's touch and blessing; and have that very same comfort, joy and security is by getting rid of the rubbish in our life, and living a life that pleases the Father. But, that will only happen as we, like this child, keep our eyes on our Father, and look to Him for His approval.
"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord"
—Psalms 127:3 (NKJV)
May you always feel the Father's touch,
Pastor / Chaplain Steve |
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| SHIELD OF FAITH |
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For more information,
call (951) 687-6902
Attention Juanita
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