The Arms Of Jesus

Matthew 11:28 – Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (NIV)

Brooke, our five year-old granddaughter loves the swing.

"Higher, Grandma, swing me higher," she called out as I sent her flying in the air.

"Hold on tight, Brooke, hold on tight," I yelled back. She giggled that happy voice I love to hear.

Soon tiring of the swing, Brooke wanted to show me how fast she could run. Her ponytail bobbed up and down as she ran through the grass. Where did she find all that energy?

Finally, completely exhausted, her legs had taken her as far as she could go. Brooke ran to where I was sitting in the comfort of my white rocking chair on the front porch. Her face was rosy red, and her beautiful eyes were glistening with the joy of life.

"Grandma," she said, "I have run so much my heart is moving!" I knew she meant her heart was beating fast. I held Brooke close to allow her tired body and fast-beating heart to rest. I sensed her body relaxing in the arms of her grandmother.

Are we so busy that we find ourselves running all day? Perhaps we have been going round and round, much like Brooke had been doing. Are we tired from all the hurry and scurry of the day? Are our hearts beating so fast we feel like they are literally moving? Is joy and peace eluding us?

Let us try running to the arms of Jesus!

Prayer: Lord, it is comforting to know that You welcome us when we stop and relax a few minutes in Your arms. Thank You for the calmness that comes from time spent with You. Amen.