Life with God

"Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, 'Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.' So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place."
Mark 6:31-32

A few years back while my wife and daughters were out of state visiting family, I decided to do a solo camping trip. I packed up some gear, drove up into the mountains, and hiked into the woods a mile or so from the nearest sign of human activity. My intention was to use the time to be still and embrace the quiet in hopes that God would speak and I would hear from Him. As afternoon sank into evening and evening to night, I found myself delighted and at peace as I observed God's creation. Mountain streams babbling through the woods, stars appearing as daylight dissipated, and a pair of barred owls squabbling above my tent. It wasn't until the next morning it dawned on me: I think God enjoys watching His creation as much as I do...No, even more! And He's watching all of this with me! I started to think about when God created the earth. I couldn't help imagining how He must have sat back on the seventh day and just watched all that He created as it went about its beautiful dance.

I had gone into the woods hoping to hear from God, but I think He was delighted for the opportunity I had to simply be with Him. The best kinds of relationships in life are not transactional. Sadly, I have a tendency to treat my relationship with God as if it was. The best and most intimate relationships are ones that don't require an agenda, or an outcome. God keeps gently reminding me that he didn't save me just so that I could serve him (although that is part of it). He saved me simply because He loves me and He wants me to be with him...Today, tomorrow and for the rest of eternity.