Ever Cuddle in Your Heavenly Father's Lap?

Have you ever noticed how you can listen to a sermon or a motivational speaker with a friend and it’s almost as if you were at two different churches or events because your take-a-ways were nothing alike?

I don’t think it’s strange, I think it wonderful!

We seem to catch just what God has for us. It’s like reading the Bible over and over during your life. The same passage that seemed dry to you last year may bring you springs of life this year. It’s about your perspective, your need and your openness to hear from God that make the difference.

My dad shared an Easter message this year on Facebook live. In all the gems he shared, one thing really stood out to me and it’s one of those images that will stay with me forever. It may not have even been a main point for him, but it was for me. He told this story (which I will paraphrase.)

One of our granddaughters (his great granddaughter) lives close enough that they visit my parents regularly. She is currently five years old. Dad was telling how she is not your typical five-year-old in that she still really loves to cuddle. She will climb up into his lap and stay there for a long time. She lays her head on his shoulder, closes her eyes and just rests there. While she is a cuddle bug for sure, I don’t think she does that with just anyone, at least not for that long.

She is comfortable there with him because they have that kind of relationship. They spend time playing together - they can both be very silly, and she likes that. They play games and have indoor Easter egg hunts year-round. They talk about important things - yes, you can talk to children who are very young about important things. Things like making Jesus happy, why birds build nests, obeying your parents, being kind to others and picking up trash rather than stepping over it. Tons of things like that.

Personal side note: One of the many things that I love about my dad is his ability to make everyday things opportunities to learn about nature or people but ultimately to learn about Jesus. He is a true teacher.

As he shared the very brief story of how she will cuddle up in lap – he laid a challenge out in a way – he said something like this: “do you have that kind of relationship with your Heavenly Father? Do you ever just climb up in his lap and cuddle?”

Strange thought I know! But why is that strange to us? Why wouldn’t the arms of God be the most comforting and restful place imaginable for us?

Stepmoms, do you walk through your day in a constant state of tension trying to avoid stepping on landmines in your own home? Do you wonder if life will ever calm down or truly be good again? Does an angry manipulative ex-wife have you second guessing everything you do and say? Is peace something you have given up on? Do you only dream of cuddle time with your kids or step kids or even with your husband?

Sounds like you need some cuddle time with your Heavenly Father! Time to cry quietly in his arms or just to be silent and rest with the one who knows and loves you best.

I have great news for you! He is always there and always ready to open his arms to you. He loves you like no other! He knows you – all the good, the bad and the ugly of you – and he still loves you in a way that is not even comprehendible to us.

The best part is, He pursues you because there is nothing more important to God than having a relationship with you. Not just any relationship, but the intimate kind of relationship that doesn’t require works – just faith.

The kind that invites cuddle time.

Until next time, step gracefully!

Andrea Olsen