Some of my fondest childhood memories include time spent in an empty field with my dad and brother. We would hike the short distance from the back of our property to a huge high-grass field. As a little girl, I could feel the butterflies of excitement build with each step closer to our destination. As if I were walking to an amusement park or toy store.
But it was just an empty field. The sweet place where I would take hold of my daddy’s outstretched arms and he would swing me round and round and round until we were both too dizzy to turn once more. Giggling uncontrollably, I would stumble in a happiness-drunk stupor, head still spinning from the experience.
“Do it again, daddy!” I would call out, my hands already reaching for his. And he would. Giving my brother and me the gift of time spent together, playing, laughing, spinning. So simple. So beautiful and impactful.
Dad’s hands were strong. They were certain. I knew he would never let go, that his love wouldn’t allow it. A thought that has carried from those hours in the field through the rest of my life. I was, I am safe in my father’s love.
In Jesus’ presence, I always see myself as that little girl. Enjoying His companionship, His presence, His smile and outstretched arms. I crave the intimacy of spending time with Him in that simple “field”. Free. Laughing. Head spinning in the wonder of who He is, what He shares and does. It’s that safe place of the ultimate love and connection. Where I am my most “me” enjoying the most “Him”. Childlike faith colliding brilliantly with profound divine reality.
So once again this morning, with the heart of a five-year-old, butterflies of anticipation fill my belly. A new day and adventure in the hands of my Abba, my Daddy and Father.
John 15:15 – Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.
Psalm 16:11 – You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
2 Samuel 6:14 – Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the LORD with all his might…
Matthew 18:2-4 – And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
