Uncomplicated

The rustling of his two year-old tootsies against the crib mattress rouses me from my slumber. He scales the side of the crib and clambers over to me. Not yet enticed to vacate the warm hug of my flannel sheets and fluffy comforter, I whisk my son up into bed with me.

He snuggles up close and presses his soft, flushed cheek to mine. He is still.

All to soon, my little tornado will wreak baby havoc on our house. Meals will be rejected. Pots and pans pulled from cupboards. Clothing strewn across the floor. Perhaps an entire over-sized canister of rolled oats will coat the first level of the house…

But here, now…I relish the sweetness of a chubby hand cupping my face and the precious babble, “Bahdah bahdah,bahdah bahdah, Mama!”

I am overwhelmed with gratitude.

Humbled by the gift God has given me.

“…in everything give thanks. For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” –1 Thessalonians 5:18

And it occurs to me that I can approach my Father this way.

Leaning in close, snuggled up against, abiding…in a contented trust.

In rest. In adoration. Still.

Despite my stumblings to come.

With child-like faith.

As one close to his heart.

But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not try to stop them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ –Matthew 19:14

Uncomplicated.

Just love, trust, and thanks.

And you? What simple gratitude brings you closer to the heart of God?

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Mandy is a homeschooling mom of four, married for 12 years to her Mr. Tall, Dark and Handsome. She has a heart for encouragement, writing, and creating art. She blogs words of freedom at http://mandymianecki.com. You can follow her on Twitter @MandyMianecki.