My children are 14 and 11. These last few years have been the ones I dreamed of – they are both able to dress themselves, fix their own snacks, handle chores around the house, and hold intelligent conversations. We are able to do all kinds of fun things as a family. It is a great age. The one disappointing thing about the teen and pre-teen years is that the snuggling days are almost over. You know, when they hop in your lap or snuggle up to you for no reason at all. They both will still snuggle up sometimes, but it is less and less. I wonder how many more years I have of those special moments. So I treasure each one when it happens.
I was reading a devotion about the Sabbath recently and the writer suggested that maybe God wants the same sweet moments with us. Of course he loves all that we do – especially when we do it for him. Just as we love to watch our children demonstrate their latest accomplishment for us. But perhaps what he longs for is for us to sit quietly in his arms and let him hold us tightly. The imagery gives me such a peaceful feeling. In the midst of the end of school craziness, I encourage you to spend a little time in your Father’s arms. Don’t feel guilty; it is what He longs for.