Psalm 27:8 
My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” 
And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming.” (NLT)

When my heart whispered, “Seek God,”
my whole being replied,
“I’m seeking him!” (MSG)

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I am my granddaughter’s favorite. Of course, this depends on context. Her mother is her most favorite, and her father is her most favorite, and her grandmother is also her favorite. Who said she couldn’t have more than one favorite?

How do I know I’m her favorite? Her mother and father recently gathered her and her bag of necessities and prepared for a short journey. She might not have been all that excited about missing the opportunity to stay home and play outside. Her mother asked her, “Do you want to see Granddad?” She perked up and said, “I’m coming, Granddad! I’m coming!”

See what I mean? I’m obviously the favorite.

The verse above has long been a favorite of mine. It returns to my attention from time to time in moments of necessity and opportunity. The Lectio 365 app uses it occasionally in its morning and evening devotionals. It is always a beautiful reminder that God draws us to his own heart so that we may know the depth of his love, the height of his purpose, and the joy of his unending friendship.

After a full day of joint labor, we dined with this same granddaughter and her parents. The Little Light that is our granddaughter was fully aglow. She loved the food, she loved the company, and she loved life. At a quiet moment in our conversation, she wiggled with delight and said, “I’m happy!” That’s the first time she has ever said that. 

God calls us into his presence so that we may experience his goodness and grace. His beauty and wonder overflow into our lives and overfill our cups. How could we not be happy, joyful, and loving in return?

In U2’s song Beautiful Day, Bono sings, “Laughter is the evidence of freedom.” Galatians 5:1 says, “So Christ has truly set us free.” In John 8:32, Jesus says, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” He continues in verse 36 with these words:

“So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.”

True freedom is evidenced in laughter, happiness, joy, and purpose. It receives and extends God’s perfect love. 

How free are you today? 

Are you happy, and you know it?

How will you express God’s abounding goodness?

Who will you target as a recipient of his perfect love?

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I will seek God daily and live in the joy of his presence and purpose.

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Our Father, may my life overflow with the effervescent joy our granddaughter displayed at dinner. May our hearts express our response to your invitation to come and talk with you with the anticipation of delight that she did. May we walk in ever deeper communion with you and your unfailing love and goodness. Amen.