untangling the web

‘Some people brought their children to Jesus so that he could bless them by placing his hands on them. But his disciples told the people to stop bothering him.

‘When Jesus saw this, he became angry and said, “Let the children come to me! Don’t try to stop them. People who are like these little children belong to the kingdom of God. I promise you that you cannot get into God’s kingdom unless you accept it the way a child does.” Then Jesus took the children in his arms and blessed them by placing his hands on them.’  (Mark 10: 13 -16 CEV)

 

A lit-up face,

a huge ear-to-ear smile,

eyes sparkling,

excitement tumbling out –

and all because of a treat suggested,

                a new experience

                an invitation

                a beautiful sight.

 

Lord, so often I have lost those good child-like qualities –

the wonder, the gratitude, the love, the excitement –

and I’ve put in their place

criticism, boredom, sarcasm, and weariness.

I’ve lost the joy of being your child,

holding your hand, and letting you

show me new wonders and things of beauty.

I’ve lost the hugs and gained a soppy handshake.

I’ve lost the thanks and gained a shrug of the shoulders.

I’ve lost the enormity of all that you are and gained an empty box.