Ready?

I opened the kitchen door to let in Beans the cat; I stood and waited while he washed his paws and licked his coat. His disinterested actions gave the message, "When I am ready." Beans glanced down the street, ignoring my voice until he decided he would come in.

Then I picked him up and said, "Hi, Beans. It's breakfast time, you know." I petted his back and said, "If you had come in right away, you would have been stroked and fed sooner." Beans purred contentedly while in my arms.

As I petted Beans, I thought, Jesus did the same with me. He invited me in, then stood and waited patiently while my attitudes and behavior gave the message, "When I am ready," while I ignored his voice.

Then, when I decided to come into his presence, Jesus put his arms around me and said, "Hi, Dick. Where have you been? It's time you are fed!" Jesus held me close and spoke again. "I'm glad you are back. You are loved here, you know." I wonder, now, why I waited to long to enter.

Prayer: Loving God, forgive us for all the times we ignore your voice and your invitation to be with you. We are coming into your presence right now. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thought for the Day
Christ is always ready to offer us love and nourishment.

Read John 14:1-7

Richard Hagerman (Idaho)

Prayer Focus: My unwillingness to enter God's presence.