Sense of Wonder

Some weeks ago during my prayer time, I was imagining myself on the beach with Jesus. In this picture in my mind, I was a child, not an adult. Jesus and I were stooped down looking at hermit crabs. We both held them and studied them with amazement at these little creatures. Jesus was smiling. The ocean water would come up gently under our feet and the wet sand felt so invigorating while the sound of the gentle waves was refreshing.

As we stayed crouched down looking at the hermit crabs, the shells, and other sea creatures, Jesus said to me, “Don’t lose your childlike sense of wonder.” I knew he was talking to me as an adult today. 

I understood what Jesus was saying. He was saying keep stopping to notice the beauty of God around me. No matter if it is a big gorgeous sunrise or sunset, or a small desert toad hopping by. Stop and notice and be awed at God’s creation. Keep that childlike sense of wonder. It’s a gift.

A couple of weeks later, my daughter and granddaughter came to visit us at the Ranch. My granddaughter is 20 months old. I saw first-hand that childlike sense of wonder. I was so taken by her sense of awe and delight over every bug that walked by, even a tarantula. Her face would light up and a “Whooooo” sound would come out of her mouth. (I’m posting a few photos as I was able to capture a little bit of it.)

I so loved watching my granddaughter enjoy God’s creation. She made me smile over and over again. I recalled that image I shared about Jesus and me at the sea, and that Jesus was smiling. I believe he was overjoyed in watching me delight in his creation. I know God sent my little granddaughter to show me close-up in flesh and blood what he had just recently told me in prayer.

What’s the hurry! Stop and really notice. And let it fill your heart with awe, joy, and gratitude to God.

God bless you,

Mary Ann / Mother Hen