By Sheryl Boldt
Carol waved to her best Friend from across the grassy field. She grabbed her three-year-old daughter, Shelby, and swung her onto her right hip. Shelby giggled as her mother’s long stride bounced her as she hurried toward Jesus.
“I’m glad to see you again,” she said. “I have so much to tell You since the last time we talked…”
Using the above story as an example, I invite you to picture yourself as one of the people in this week’s verse: “As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him.” (Mark 9:15 NIV).
During one of my quiet times, this verse inspired me to imagine what it would be like to see Jesus face-to-face. I saw His smile as I ran toward Him. I felt His delight when I told Him how much I adored and needed Him. I watched him nod as I thanked Him for keeping my family safe from the coronavirus and for all He continues to do to strengthen and bless my marriage.
During our chat, I shared important prayer requests. I asked him to save my family members, heal my friends, and give our leaders wisdom. I reminded him of my dream to be an author, a speaker and a screenplay writer. And I hung onto every word I imagined Him saying. As we talked, I sensed His pleasure. It was obvious He enjoyed spending time with me, too.
This experience was so incredible it made me want to make running to Jesus a regular habit. It reminded me that we don’t have to wait until we are in a crisis to talk to Him. Imagine running up to your closest Friend to share the news about your latest grandchild; or to your Shepherd, when you need closeness; or to your Counselor, when you need advice.
Try it this week. Spend time imagining yourself chatting with Jesus face-to-face. Picture Him holding you tightly while you pour out your heart to Him. Tell Him how scared you are that Grandma might die, how much you miss spending time with your son who moved so far away, how you’re not sure if you’ll be able to buy groceries next week.
If you don’t need anything, take a moment just to worship your Lord and talk about… everything. Then wait for His loving response—and allow yourself to be “overwhelmed with wonder” as you sense His pleasure for the time you shared.
Sheryl H. Boldt is the author of the blog, www.TodayCanBeDifferent.net. Connect with her at [email protected].