I Want to Hold Your Hand

As I picked up my students from Art class today, one of my precious ones ran up to me, looked at me with puppy dog eyes, and said, "I want to hold your hand." It is pretty much impossible to refuse such a request. This particular student does this from time to time whenever he just needs an extra measure of loving devotion. He's not afraid to say, "Miss Lowery, I need to hold your hand for a minute. " Or, "Miss Lowery, I need a hug." It is precious to me, and today it brought other reflections to my mind and heart.

We all need that, don't we? Every once in a while we need someone to just love on us a little more than normal. Sometimes an extra hug or genuine, "How are you?" just happens upon us. Other times we have to humble ourselves and say, "I need a little love today. Can you help me with that?" (Side note: asking children to hug you is a great way to get a little more lovin' in your day!) It's not always easy to do that, however.

So, here's what I wonder...do you ever ask this of God? Do you sometimes find yourself saying, "Lord God, will you shower a little more love on me today? I am feeling the need to be reminded that I am the child and you are the parent." And, that's what it is really all about. He is our Father. We are His children. Just like you crawled in your mom or dad's lap for no reason other than cause you wanted to be close; so you can crawl into the lap of your Heavenly Father and just absorb His love.

Last night as I was getting ready for bed, my mind was reviewing a few things that have happened over the last few days. Nothing major, but just reflecting on some conversations. Through my reflections, I was left with a few questions that are completely unknown to me at this point. As I got into bed, I found myself saying, "Lord, it's a good thing you are in control of all of that, because I sure don't want to be." I was able to lay down in His loving presence and sleep knowing that He is in control. This concept is seen in our lives when children can relax and go to sleep knowing that their parents are in the same house taking care of all of their needs.

All of these things have just reminded me how much comfort we can take from viewing God as our Abba Father. We have physical evidence in this life of how comforting parents/adults can be to children, and we can cling to that image as we assume the role of sons and daughters of God. Don't be afraid to let God love on you. Ask Him for an extra measure of love if you are feeling a little drained. He is always waiting right there to shower you with blessings beyond what you can imagine. Open your eyes and see His love pouring down all around you!

"I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing."

Ezekiel 34:26

"As a mother comforts her child,

so will I comfort you;

and you will be comforted over Jerusalem."

Isaiah 66:13