I love the children here in Rwanda. Each time I walk down the bumpy dirt roads I hear their little voices shouting "mazungus!", I see their faces light up, and then I watch them break out in a full sprint toward me with their arms wide open. I am then greeted with a giant hug. There is no hesitation, no holding back in the way that they come to me. And they will stop with whatever they are doing, whatever game they are playing and they will follow me down the road soaking up as much time with me as they can get. I enjoy every moment of it – it's my favorite part of the day.
I know that I have something to learn from them. When children approached Jesus in the same manner when He walked on this earth, He said "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." (Mark 10:14-15)
When it comes to my relationship with God, am I like a child, running toward my God with arms wide open and an expression of elation? When He calls me nearer to Him, do I drop whatever is hindering me and seek after Him with all of me? Or do I hesitate, or make excuses as to why I can't do that today? Is my response to give a sigh and slowly make my way toward Him with feet dragging? Or do I only run to God in complete joy and surrender on days that I am feeling up for it, when it feels good?
I think this is a daily choice that I have. Every day I can decide how I want to approach the kingdom of God. I can be like a child, excited to embrace a God who is eager to pour out all of His goodness on me, and find joy in being obedient to His calling. Or I can choose to pursue the kingdom of God with as little amount of energy as I feel like I can get away with.
This month I am thankful for the daily reminder of this choice. And the reminder of the joy that springs forth from both sides when the response is a full sprint and an uninhibited embrace.
