It’s Fun to Run!

We pulled into the driveway at our oldest daughter’s home, looking forward to taking two of our grandchildren out for ice cream. Our granddaughter, 9 at the time, exploded from the front door and hopped into the back seat, beaming from ear-to-ear. Our grandson, then 4, quickly followed, arms spread wide: “Papa Nana (dispensing with the ‘and,’ since he considered us a package), I’m so happy to see you! Give me a hug and kiss!”

I met his eager request, then buckled him into a booster in the back seat. Animated conversation ensued until we stopped at Baskin Robbins for our treat. Our grandson selected a deep blue ice cream to match his favorite friend, Thomas the Tank Engine; our granddaughter chose pink bubblegum, since everything in her room and most of her clothes were pink!

Our treats finished and our grandson’s blue mouth and hands washed off, it was time to head home. They pleaded in unison to extend our special time together, so we stopped at the playground of their neighborhood grammar school. Our grandson bounded out of the car calling back to us, “It’s fun to run!” as he ran to the merry-go-round. We spent an hour watching and playing with them on assorted playground equipment and fitness stations. They slept well that night.

It was after we hugged them good-bye that God began to speak to my heart about the fun times He wants to have with His children, pulling from the unforgettable images of our grandchildren. Just as they had waited patiently by the door for us to arrive, Jesus waits patiently at the door of our hearts. And when we open the door, he runs in to greet us with arms open wide, ready to lavish on us, hugs and kisses.

His desire is to spend time with us in animated conversation, both sides sharing, not just a one-sided dialogue followed by the silence of a “disconnect.” And as we walk with Him, sharing as close friends do, and when we stop to taste the sweetness of His Word, we will discover there is even more to our relationship than quiet moments. We’ll find that “It’s fun to run” with Jesus!

. . . stop to taste the sweetness of His Word . . .

Song of Songs 2:13 TPT

The Bridegroom-King speaks:

Can you not discern this new day of destiny breaking forth around you? The early signs of my purposes and plans are bursting forth. The budding vines of new life are now blooming everywhere. The fragrance of their flowers whispers, “There is change in the air.” Arise, my love, my beautiful companion, and run with me to the higher place. For now is the time to arise and come away with me.