I can vividly remember the evening. We really wanted to be with Dad. Rich and I knew that he had a second job to go to, that we were lucky that he had time to come home for supper, but we just didn’t want him to leave! Our patience with his promise that he would spend time with us on the weekend had completely expired. We wanted our Dad now! We would not wait.
In a quiet moment we snuck out and slid under the canopy covering the bed of the pick-up truck. We were perfectly still; hoping beyond hope that our plan would work. Dad was very generous. He seemed to know we were there but gave no indication for the first two blocks. A quick turn and we flew across the bed and thumped into the side. Our hearts sank as the truck slowed.
The ride home was surprisingly upbeat. We didn’t get in trouble; in fact our deception wasn’t even discussed. We talked about what we wanted to do, how much fun it was when we were able to ride bikes together, and what would happen when the three of us were together next.
I wonder if I have the same longing for God. Sure there are the times where I am as impatient as when I was on the long drive as a kid. “Are we there yet?” is a recurring theme. I don’t wonder about the negative “get me out of here” sentiment. I wonder about the “got to be with you at all costs” sentiment that drove me to the bed of the truck. Do I really have it with God?
I know I didn’t always think that way. I also know that now I desperately want this more than life itself. The change for me occurred when I spent time with God and saw myself in God’s eyes as well as my own. I like God’s view of me! And to me repeated question his answer is clear.
“Yes, I’m on my way! I’ll be there soon!” (Revelation 22.12)
