Every Monday and Thursday morning I get the privilege of being involved with the Parent & Toddler Group (P&TG) which is run by St. Andrew's Church in Blackley.  As one of my ministries, the P&TG is a unique opportunity to build relationships with moms, dads, grandparents, and babysitters, as well as the kids.  This group is meant for kids age 0-3, so I get to spend time hanging out with some pretty adorable children.  Unfortunately, the Child Protection Laws here prevent me from taking pictures of them, so you'll just have to take my word that they're pretty darn cute.

Anyway, as I've been reading through The Art of Listening Prayer (by Seth Barnes, founder and CEO of Adventures in Missions), I have been reminded of the father-child relationship we have with God.  One of the questions I asked God (as prompted by the book) was "Is there anything I need to change to relate to you more as a Father?  What is it?"  I sensed God responding, telling me to take the time to approach Him as a child approaches its father.  Then He listed things like telling Him what I want and think I need, asking Him for a hug, cuddling in His lap, crying on His shoulder, seeking guidance and direction from Him, and being obedient.

Those things were running through my mind as I watched the kids at the P&TG today.  I watched their interactions with their parents/grandparents/caretakers.  I watched one little girl (who was there for the first time today) and the pure joy that shone from her face as she discovered all the toys.  One little boy who's usually not far from his mother's side ventured across the room today, all the while looking back to make sure she was watching.  When the kids get hungry or thirsty, they head back to mom who hands them a drink or some toast.  I love watching the little ones trying to figure out how to climb up the little slide or how to sit down once they get to the top; they aren't afraid to keep trying... or to ask for help when they realize they can't do it themselves.  When a child falls down, his mom can hear his cry despite all the other noise in the room; she comes to his rescue, lifting him up and offering comfort.

I pray that these images will stay in my mind and help me to discover how to relate more to God as my Father.