I have spent an unreal amount of time surrounded by children this summer, and through this, God has reminded me of the simplicity of life when I choose to live it as His child.

It seems that as far back as our memories can recall we were wanting to grow up, to gain respect, permission, authority, and even responsibility.

And soon enough, we find ourselves carrying weights far too heavy for us, weights we were so eager to accept. We find ourselves with more questions than answers, more task than time, more doubt than faith,and more words than thoughts. We find ourselves in a cycle of striving, reaching, and falling short. We discover that no matter how hard we try, someone is always going to want more from us, disagree with our perspective, or disapprove of our choices. We wanted to be strong, but all we feel is weak.

But Jesus beckons us. He sings a melody far different from the world's. He sings a bit softer, yet, so much clearer. He entices us to be still again, to listen more, to speak less, to wonder with amazement, and to stop our questioning and doubting. He reminds us it's ok to be tired from running, and need to walk.

And as we respond to His beckoning, we find ourselves secure in His arms just like a child. We find strength, strength that allows us to be weak. We find rest, rest that gives us permission to make more time. We find peace, peace that reminds us we don't have to have the answers. We find perspective, perspective that overpowers the realities of the world. And we find joy, joy that cuts through even the darkest night.

"Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever then humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." ~MATTHEW 18:12