Yesterday and today I had the privilage of watching both of my kids close their eyes and enter into a time of rest. Much like their dad, they like their back rubbed in order to fall asleep. (to Noah’s future wife: I’m sorry, if this is setting you up for countless nights of back rubs…) So I was gladly rubbing their back and watching my little 3 1/2 year old and 2 year old fall asleep. It really was amazing. If you aren’t a parent you may be wondering why this is so inspiring. I didn’t get it till I became a dad. (so, hold onto your hat…)
There is nothing that disturbs me more than when my child is distressed. Crying in fear, crying in pain, and crying in panic. I hate that. I want nothing more than to wrap my arms around them both and protect them from feeling that way. So, as I watched their tears turn to calm steady breathing, turn to resting, it was a beautiful picture; one which I will not soon forget.
Noah and Grace, it is a joy to be your daddy. I love you both so much.
At The Five, we are in a sermon series called Plan B. This is looking at what do we do when life doesn’t go our way? How do we react and respond? I couldn’t help but think about how God must feel when we are all in a panic, and we are running around like crazy people. Don’t you think that if God created all of our emotions, and we are made in His image, that we must be feeling a portion of what He would feel? I wonder… if God gets as much joy and pleasure out of watching us rest in Him? I’m willing to bet He does.
Take a break. Quit trying. Rest in God.
~Peter
1 Comment
I look forward to one day having that feeling towards my kids. I can only imagine how special that is. I need more and more to just rest in God, and to quit trying. I have placed a good many expectations on my life, when what I truly need to do is to rest in Him as He cares for all my needs.