By Cyndi
Jimmy Buffett has a song called “Growing Older But Not Up.” Not that I accede to all the lyrics of this song, I do like the title. Especially when it comes to the Kingdom of God.
Jesus tells us we are to become like little children if we wish to belong to the Kingdom. (Mark 10:14) He also says that praise is perfected in children. (Matt. 21:16) And of course, the biggest child reference in the Word is that we are all called His sons and daughters — His kids.
I just recently had a birthday and my body and mind are definitely aging. Be that as it may, spiritually I’m getting younger, more child-like. Keeping things simple.
I don’t believe the Kingdom of God is complicated. He created us to be His sons and daughters, we receive that position by faith and – boom – Abba Father is that close.
Children aren’t born with prejudices, shame, or even fear, I think. We learn these things. Look at our forefathers, Adam and Eve. They walked in the garden, naked and unafraid (sorry, couldn’t resist). Eden had nothing dangerous in it they were worried about. There was no embarrassment or fault-finding in their bodies. Do you think Eve ever asked Adam, “Does this make me look fat?”
They were supposed to live forever. Forever as a son and daughter, partaking in the glorious presence of their Father. Playing, laughing, and resting in perfect love. Like a child. No worries, no fears. Dad will take care of everything.
Being involved with Shiloh Place for many years, I remember Jack Frost used to say, “I just want to be a little boy with a big Daddy.” And to this day, his wife, Trisha Frost, still claims she’s Papa God’s favorite. (Me too!) Luckily, we are all favored. We are all His children in whom He is well pleased. (Luke 3:22).
So I have another year on this earth under my belt and my numbers are getting bigger, but I’m gonna refuse to grow up. I want to live continuously in child-like wonder of the majesty of His creation. I want to strive to see people through the simplicity of mercy and grace as a sibling. I want to relate to my Almighty Father in heaven as a gentle Daddy that allows me to climb up in His lap and play ostrich (peek-a-boo).
Yeah, I may be growing older, but I’m becoming more and more like a kid in the Kingdom. Thank you, Mr. Buffett, for reminding me of my true position in Christ.