God Is Watching You
My children may get tired of being used as Bible illustrations in my sermons and bulletin articles. Yet, even Jesus knew children can teach us great lessons about our spiritual relationship with our Father, the Creator (Matthew 18:4). So, in the spirit of Christ, I offer another moment’s worth of meditation from my own children.
I was recently throwing the Frisbee to my two oldest children, Samuel and Zoe, off of the back patio into the backyard. As I sat there, Haddie (my youngest) was also on the porch and said, “Daddy, watch me.”
I replied, “Okay,” but kept my eyes on the two Frisbees which were being thrown in my direction.
So, Haddie raised her voice and said, “Daddy, WATCH me.”
I gave her a quick lance and said “okay” but apparently did not give her enough attention.
So, again she said, “Daddy, WATCH ME!”
I turned and lookedher in the eye and she then proceeded to take the 18-inch plunge off of the back patio onto the grass (a big deal for a little girl about to turn 2).
Yet, what was even more interesting is what she did once she knew she had my attention. A smile lit up her face and she probably jumped off of that patio fifteen times once she knew I was looking.
Each of my children acts differently as they become aware of my presence. I truly enjoy the few moments where I can watch my children without them knowing it. Once they realize you are watching, they sometimes act differently (which can be a good thing). But, it is still interesting to see how they act when they think you are not around.
The spiritual lesson: We have a Father in heaven who is always watching and aware of our thoughts, words and actions. Yet, we often do not act like it. If we could all realize we live in our Father’s presence each moment of our lives it could change our behavior. We would smile realizing His watchful, caring eye is upon us and live each moment to glorify Him, who holds eternity in His hands.
Psalm 139:1-6, “O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O Lord, You know it altogether. You have hedged me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain it.”
Think about it.
August 2009