FEBRUARY 2010 DEVOTION

Jesus and Chocolate Cake

I just finished baking a chocolate cake.  During the process my 17-year-old son asked, “Why are you making a cake?”  While a reasonable explanation would be that is it for a birthday or special occasion or even because it’s a snow day with no school, the truth of the matter is, I made a chocolate cake because I really, really like chocolate cake!  My son laughed and shook his head, but I know he will enjoy it!

And believe it or not, the entire conversation made me think about Jesus.  Too often we act as though we have to have a REASON to spend time with Jesus – something to the effect of “I have to pray for my friend” or “I have to help with this mission project” or “I have a great need to share with God” or “I have to be in the middle of everything Christian that is going on,” etc.

While spending time with the Lord because of service, prayer, and fellowship with others is great, I am learning that often the most fulfilling moments are when I spend time with Him “just because I really, really love being with Jesus!” 

No agenda.  No other reason.  He’s just fun to be with.  He’s wonderful to talk to as a Friend without pressing Him for answers or results.  He’s profound and deep, yet very warm and often surprisingly simple.  How much time have you spent with Jesus just because you love Him?  I pray we will all choose Him more and more each and every day.  He’s way better than chocolate cake!

Let’s pray.  Father, what a miracle it is to know You through Jesus.  Thank You for Your accessibility and love, Your patience and grace, Your mercy and blessings, but most of all we thank You for just being You.  In Jesus’ Precious Name we pray.  Amen.