Jesus on the Beach

Several years ago, a friend gave me a book called "Wonder, Fear and Longing:  a  Book of Prayers".  One of the ideas the book gives to experience Jesus in a fresh way is the following example I have used many times with my daughter, Libby.

Last night was no exception.  As I was tucking Libby in her cozy bed, knowing that after a busy weekend packed with lots of quality family time, a little melancholy ten-year-old would be trying to get herself back into school mode.  It wasn't working in her own strength.  I knew what I had to do ... lead her to the beach.  Before I could, she says to me in her sleepy and a bit stressed little voice, "Mama, do the Jesus on the beach thing with me.".

So, with words to paint pictures in her mind, I lead her to a quiet beach.  She's all alone yet unafraid.  She sees a figure coming toward her.  She instantly recognizes the friends she's come to know the closer his feet carry him toward her.  It's Jesus.  He sits down next to her as she gazes out toward the quiet sea.  He nudges her softly and asks her, "What are you thinking about, Libby?"

She then has all the quiet moments she needs to pour out her heart to her friend, Jesus.  As she shares conversation in her heart, I see the evidence of communication going on within her.  I smile as she has her eyes intensely shut and her lips quietly separate invisible words to her friend.  When she's done, she squeezes my hand.

It's then I paint more words into her imaginary canvas and ask her to sit still ... and grab that hand that has now reached for hers ... and listen.  Her friend, Jesus, has something to say to her heart.  She remains still while she hears with the ears of her heart what He says to her innermost places.

Then, I kiss her softly.  Her body and mind now at rest ... my soul joins their company.  God, the Creator of the Universe, has used words of His Son, Jesus, to quiet the heart of my Libby.  She's found comfort through the power of God, the Holy Spirit.

It's a reminder.  If God can calm the heart of a stressed out 10-year-old He can calm the heart of her uncertain Mama!  All we both have to do is ask!

Asking and receiving,
christina