I caught myself the other day. I realized I hadn’t intentionally talked to God in days. Something quite shocking coming from a ‘missionary’, I know. Even in this life it seems I like to make excuses for myself. We were traveling, I’d been sick, I was getting used to the new country, insert whatever other excuse you want.
Good thing there is grace and with that truth I tried to clear my mind.
“Hey, God! So, where do you want to talk?”
My mind brought me to a forest with towering trees so high I couldn’t see where they ended. There was light peaking through the branches from above. In front of me I saw a small river refracting the light all around. Across the river from me stood Jesus.
“So, what do you want to talk about?”
Jesus looked at me and waited a second before responding.
“You don’t know me…”
Wait, what?… I thought but didn’t say. Then simply replied.
“You’re right.”
He reached His hand out.
“Come with me.”
It didn’t take long for me to reflect on my relationship with Jesus. I grew up in the church. I grew up being told all of the wonderful things of Jesus. What He did for us and how much He loves us. I was told these things for decades now, but when have I ever gone past what I’ve been told? When have I ever sought after Jesus on my own?
I can’t discount how much I’ve grown in my relationship with Him over the past year, but I can’t help feeling like I’m still going off what I’m being told. I’m continually feeding myself with head knowledge from those around me and missing out on the heart knowledge He desires for me.
So, yes. I don’t know Jesus like He desires me too. A thought that may have overwhelmed me only a few months ago, but when Jesus said those words it wasn’t a condemnation. It was Jesus looking at His sweet daughter, taking her hand and saying “Come with me.” It was Jesus inviting me into a deeper relationship with Him, an invitation to know Him more.
I’m eager in anticipation as I take hold of Jesus’ hand and walk this life with Him. I’m ready to take His hand, can you say the same?
