I learn so much about the Father’s love for me from my kids!

The other day, my husband drew a picture for my daughter to color in.  She eagerly skipped off to her crayons and filled it with pretty colors.  When her masterpiece was complete, she ran to him yelling, “Daddy, Daddy!  Look what I made!” He gushed praises over her wonderful picture, noting each detail of beautiful color.  He gave her full credit for the picture, never taking personal credit for being the original artist – his joy was in sharing her happiness.

Why am I not more like that with my Heavenly Father?  He gives me opportunities to do wonderful things for Him and for some reason, my usual response is pretty dorky.  “Thank you, Oh Father, for giving me the honor of serving You…” which isn’t a bad response but it isn’t one that a normal kid would say to their loving Dad.  My daughter didn’t timidly bow before my husband to present him with her picture – she ran to him, proudly shoving the paper in his face in expectation of his highest compliments.  I know that God loves me more than my husband loves our daughter, so I need to start acting like it!

In Matthew 18:1-5, Jesus instructs us to become like little children to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.  When kids are in a home that is filled with love, they are confident of their parent’s feelings for them.  They don’t know any better than to expect full affection and praise from their mom and dad.  They aren’t ashamed to parade their accomplishments in front of their parents because they know that no matter what, their parents will love their attempts.  Their scribbles are always brilliant.  The Kingdom of Heaven is our true home, and we are so greatly loved that Jesus gave His life for us to live there.

I know that God is responsible for everything good that happens in my life.  I know that He sets up opportunities for me to glorify Him and the Holy Spirit is the One Who fills me with the ability to accomplish them.  He did all the work, but He’s my loving Dad Who wants to celebrate with me, gushing love over me, noting each detail of my attempts at coloring in His picture.

Let’s get our crayons out because our Father has something great for us to color in today!