Part 3 of 8

So far, we've toured the study/library and the dining room. Let's continue our tour...

...Next we move into the living room. It's such a peaceful place. It's quiet, comfortable, has a fireplace, big fluffy chairs, and bookcases. Jesus is also pleased with this room. He suggests that we meet here often so we can fellowship, and have good, long talks together. Can you think of anything else you'd rather do? To have a few minutes alone with Jesus every day?! He makes a promise, "I will be here every morning early to meet with you so we can start the day together."

Every morning I head downstairs for my private, alone time with Jesus. He takes down a book of the bible from the bookcase and together we read, discuss it, apply it. God's truths unfold and my heart sings with the wonder of all Jesus did and does for me. Our friendship deepens to a whole new level I never imagined!

Unfortunately, I have a lot of responsibilities. Little by little I start shortening our time, I guess I'm too busy to take so much time away from what needs to be done. I don't mean to do that, it just sort of happens that way. I sometimes end up missing a day or two in a row.

One morning, I rush out the door, but on the way, I happen to glance into the living room. As I look over, I notice there's a fire in the fireplace and Jesus patiently waiting in His favorite chair for me, across from my empty seat. Suddenly, a sadness sets into my heart. Here is my guest, I invited Him, yet here I am neglecting Him!

I enter the room and apologize. "Have you been here every single morning waiting for me like this?" I ask. He answers, "Of course. I told you I'd be here every morning to meet with you, and so I have." The guilt and shame was overwhelming. Jesus gently assured me I was forgiven. With more love than I've ever experienced from anyone before he continues, "You see, you've been thinking of our time together as your own time of spiritual growth. But you need to know this: I love you, I redeemed you at a great cost, I value our friendship, just the sight of you warms my heart, please stop neglecting this time for MY sake. This is MY time that I enjoy you too."

So today, and every day, please don't leave Jesus waiting along in your living room. Take a few moments to be with Him, to strengthen your relationship. To pray together, and enjoy your long talks with Him. He loves you and He absolutely misses you when you don't make it to your appointed time together.