Running to Jesus

Written by Deb del Villar, Director of Communications

My attention was caught this past week by something I saw. It intrigued me, then caused me to pause and ponder. What did I see?

Manes flying back as the horses wildly ran, noses flaring and snorting showing forth in the cool morning air, and the thundering noise of hooves galloping and pounding the ground with tremendous speed.

I did not see which horse started, but soon they were all running. Why all this action and noise? Because the farmer was arriving with a pickup bed full of hay. 

Each horse tried to get there first, wanting not only the food but for the farmer to pet them and nuzzle their nose. 

I watched as he paid attention to each and every one, speaking and rubbing their backs. They could not wait to see the farmer for they knew he had something good for them to eat.

They also desired his presence and touch.

Does this remind you of arriving at your grandchildren’s home? Do they rush out to meet you with their arms and smiles open wide?

Or maybe you are the one watching and waiting for them to come. You see the car make the bend in the road and you are on your way out the door.

You may not gallop like the horses but you are no less excited. Isn’t it wonderful to be so greeted!

If your greeting is like ours  – we have fourteen grandchildren – each one has something that they must share NOW or they will burst.

Our laps are full, our ears are busy, our eyes are leaking, and our hearts are overflowing. Each one of us desiring the presence and touch of the other.

While we personally know that not every family has this kind of memory with all their family members, we need to focus on whose presence and touch can reach them even when we may not.

Do your grandchildren know God has something great for them, even better than the farmer? 

We need to help our grandchildren desire God’s presence and touch through our actions and prayers.

One of the best ways for them to know this is by hearing that we desire God’s presence and touch in our lives. That we go to God daily for His provision and care, knowing He will supply all we need.

So first, let’s get personal. Do we run to Him excited for His presence, His touch, and His gifts?

Each and every day we have the opportunity to be like the horses above, running to Our Lord and Savior. How we need His presence and touch today!

May we be like the horses running to Him through His Word and prayer.  He has something we need that is good to nourish our body, soul, and spirit, we just need to come.

May our excitement for coming to Jesus daily be contagious and caught by our children and grandchildren. May there not be one who is not running to Him!

Psalm 63:1 “O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You…”

If you are unable to impact their lives in person, you can pray. In fact, you must pray!

Pray that in God’s perfect timing and purpose His will may be done in each and every life. Pray specifically for areas you know there is a need, being sure to include yourself. May God heal your heart and hurt feelings.

Do whatever else you are allowed to do. An example is sending cards and small gifts that speak from your heart to theirs. Stay in communication in ways that it is received best. If they are teenagers, texting or Marco Polo may be a good option.

Be creative staying within the boundaries set by parents to let them know you love them. May God give you opportunities to share your love for the Lord with them.