Carol waved to her best Friend from across the grassy field. She grabbed her three-year-old daughter, Shelby, and swung her onto her right hip. Shelby giggled as her mother’s long stride bounced her as they hurried toward Jesus.

 “I’m glad to see you again,” she said. “I have so much to tell You since the last time we talked.” ___

Using the story above as an example, picture yourself as one of the people in this week’s verse:

And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed and ran up to him and greeted him. (Mark 9:15 ESV).

The NIV says the people were “overwhelmed with wonder” as they ran to greet Him.

During one of my quiet times, this verse inspired me to imagine what it would be like to see Jesus face-to-face. I saw His smile as I ran toward Him. I felt His delight when I told Him how much I adored and needed Him. I watched Him nod as I thanked Him for all He continues to do to strengthen and bless my marriage.

During our chat, I shared important prayer requests. I asked Him to enable me to break free from besetting sins, to help my family members to know Him as their Lord and Savior and to give our leaders wisdom. I asked Him to help me with my job and reminded Him of my dream of becoming a public speaker. And I hung onto every word I imagined Him saying.

As we talked, I sensed His pleasure. It was obvious He enjoyed spending time with me as much as I enjoyed spending time with Him.

My experience was so incredible it made me want to make running to Jesus a regular habit. It reminded me that we don’t have to wait until we’re in a crisis to talk to Him.

Imagine running up to your closest Friend to share the news about your latest grandchild, or to your Shepherd when you need closeness or to your Counselor when you need advice.

Try it this week. Picture yourself chatting with Jesus face-to-face. Picture Him holding you tightly while you pour out your heart to Him. Tell Him how scared you are that Grandma might die, how much you miss your spouse while they serve in the military, how you’re not sure if you’ll be able to buy groceries next week or how much you need His help to break free from an entangling sin. If you don’t need anything, take a moment just to worship your Lord and talk about … everything.

Then wait for His loving response. Allow yourself to be “overwhelmed with wonder” as you sense His pleasure in the time you shared together.

What about you?

I’d love to hear your thoughts about this post. (Your comment might also benefit others.)

• What would you say to your best Friend?

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