I was hanging around with my family a few nights ago. My granddaughters were playing with each other. Emma is 3, and Greta is almost 2. Greta loves Emma so much. She gets so excited when they get to play together. I went to Greta’s room to see what they were doing, and see if I could play too! I enjoy being a part of their lives.

They were busy cooking in Greta’s play kitchen. They were serving each other pretend tea. I knocked and asked if I could play too. Greta came over and pushed me out the door and said “home”. She then closed the door on me. I laughed hysterically at this small person having such a strong opinion. She wanted to play with Emma, and I was in the way.

In reality, I didn’t even care if I played. I had things to do and other family members to interact with. I enjoy them so much I just wanted to be there. I wanted to participate in the fun even if only by observation, but Greta had other plans.
She loves me, and I know it. I just wasn’t fitting into the fun she had planned with her cousin. She had her sights on one love, and it wasn’t me at the moment.

Of course, this has not discouraged me or caused damage to my relationship with my granddaughter. I understand she is young and immature. It was not out of malice or meanness. She made her choice based on a quick and childish thought.

As I reflected on the situation, (mostly laughing at this small person pushing me out the door and closing it), I realized this little girl is so much like me. I see how immature and childish my response is to Jesus wanting to hang out with me. He doesn’t want anything from me but to spend time with me. He enjoys me enjoying life. The Creator of the universe wants to hang out while I make tea.

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20, ESV). I realized that my immaturity and one track mind keep Jesus out at times. I can act just like a stubborn toddler.

But Jesus laughs. Jesus is happy with or without me. He laughs and enjoys whether I let Him in or not. He is not furious or angry at me. He knows I love him. He knows that I get sidetracked. I could open the door at any moment and run into his waiting arms. He still loves me.

He knows that sometimes I make choices quickly without thinking and they can be childish. I am still a beloved child, and he still desires to come in. It doesn’t damage my relationship with him.

He waits outside the door knocking and asking to be allowed in. He could burst through the door and force his presence on me. He doesn’t. He loves me too much. He wants me to grow in my relationship with him so that I desire to have him involved in my moments and days.

Keep knocking Lord, reminding me that you are there and soften my heart so I willingly open to you. And thank you for Greta and Emma and the lessons I am learning from them.