Last night, I had the privilege of carrying all three of my boys to bed. They had fallen asleep where they were and didn't know what was going on. It never ceases to amaze me how they just go and go until they can't go anymore and then, wherever they are, they close their eyes and drift into a deep sleep. They realize that dad will soon be there to carry them to their room and safely tuck them into their bed for the night. It's so funny too, since they know that I will be there to carry them to bed, they often give me specific instructions beforehand of what they would like. These orders are given long before they fall asleep and visit la-la land. I'm beginning to think they plan on falling asleep on the couch or floor just so I will carry them to their bed. They say to me:
-Dad, can you please remember to take my socks off when you put me in bed, I don't like having them on at night.
-Dad, the next time I fall asleep and you carry me to bed, make sure I have my Lightning McQeen car with me.
-Don't forget to turn on the night light in the bathroom.

They truly believe I'm their personal attendant and my only task, besides playing games with them all day and making sure they get a slurpee everytime we go to 7-11, is to make sure their bed time directions are followed precisely. They even have the nerve to confront me the following morning if I failed to follow their precise instructions and let me know how I could improve in the nighttime services I provide for them (free of charge I might add).

I joke and play about this and think it's actually quite hilarious. But truth be told, I count it pure joy to carry my beautiful boys to their beds each night. They don't know this but as I'm carrying them to bed, I kiss them and rub their heads and offer up prayers for each of them. "Lord, keep the boys safe. Bless them and protect them. Help them grow up to be men after your own heart. Never let them walk a day outside of your will for their life!" As I hold them in my arms and lay them in their beds, they look so peaceful and so sweet. I cherish these times! I look forward to these moments and do my best to take it all in.

I would imagine our heavenly father feels the same way about us. I'm convinced he longs to have us fall asleep in his arms each night. I would imagine he enjoys having us think about him and realize that he is the one who will be there at night to protect us and make sure we end up in our beds safely! He loves to hug and kiss us and gently rub the side of our face while we sleep. His word says, "He longs to be gracious to us, he rises to show us compassion". (Isaiah 30:18)

But we are quick to give him our orders and directions for the day:
-Lord, please bless me today and provide all the money I will need.
-Lord, help people not to make me mad or upset me today.
-And Lord, don't forget, I want the 40 gig video i-pod.

It's all good though! Our heavenly father loves us so much that he wants to give us good gifts. He wants to bless us and do things for us. Even though we don't deserve it and often take it for granted that he will be there for us. His love is amazing.

Why don't you take the time today and thank him for his great love!

You know what I'm saying?!

Word...

Pasta' Alex