The other day, I was standing in front of my dining room window, clasping a hot cup of coffee and watching a mom walking with her child to the playground. I remembered how I used to hold the little hands of my girls, and we’d walk to the playground. They couldn’t wait for me to pick them up, put them on the swings, and push them as high as I could. Their laughter and joy-filled little girl voices are permanently stored in my mind and in my heart. Those weren’t the easiest of days for sure, but God was with us each and every day, and I cherish those sweet memories and give thanks to the Lord for holding my hand through it all.
The parenting journey isn’t just filled with warm and fuzzy feelings. Challenging seasons are a given. I’ve come to learn that God is always there, even when it doesn’t feel like it. It just might be that our busyness and all the distractions get in the way of us experiencing His presence. I do a few things that help me escape the daily grind and step onto holy ground.
Sometimes great worship music is all I need to feel near to God; other times, just taking in the beauty of His creation reminds me that He is here. But there is one thing that definitely takes me right into His presence.
Over the years, I have made it a habit to visualize that I am with Jesus, kind of like Mary, Martha’s sister, who was sitting at Jesus’ feet, probably reclining on a mat, and just resting and taking in every word that He was speaking. I do this, especially when I am tired or have lots on my mind. I just crash somewhere, preferably on the couch or my bed, and I imagine I am at Jesus’ feet. Having memorized some of His encouraging words comes in handy in those moments.
Matthew 11:28 is one of those verses I often go to, and I bring it to life in my imagination. I close my eyes and I hear Jesus say, “Come to me, you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” I imagine running to Him, giving Him a bear hug, and throwing my exhausted self at His feet. He eases my burdens and fills me with His peace and joy.
It says in Hebrews 4:16, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and grace in time of need.” I’m grateful that Jesus has granted us access to God’s throne in His kingdom.
On exhausting, difficult days, especially when it’s hard to pray, enter into His presence with thanksgiving and praise, and fall at His feet. Rest in knowing that “The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness, His mercies begin afresh each morning” (Lamentations 3:23).
Blessings,
Flora
Beautifully worded, So needed this at this time in my life. 🙏🏼 Thank you