A Few More Minutes

There are times when it would be easier.

If I could just do the bare minimum and go about my business. I could do the things that I enjoy, like crocheting, painting, or reading.

But this day was different. This moment called for just a few more minutes.

I was laying my daughter down for a nap. It was probably the millionth nap she’d ever taken. And sometimes I get into the habit of almost being on autopilot. I knew the drill:

Change her diaper,

Put on pajamas,

Feed her,

Sing and walk around bouncing her softly until she is mostly relaxed

Then kiss her and lay her down.

But instead of just doing the routine, I was truly being present with her. She was already 8 months old and the time when she will be this small continues to shorten.

And I realized the importance of the moment.

Of this moment.

And I nestled my face into her neck and smelled her sweet hair. I really noticed the way she felt in my arms. I cherished just how small and precious she was.

I took just a few… more… minutes.

And in return, I received more than I could have if I’d just gone about my own business.

I felt more connected, more peaceful, more loving; and I thought about the Lord. He who was so thoughtful to listen to my every prayer and concern. Who cared enough to be there for me in every single moment.

He could have been an absent God. Simply setting creation in motion and leaving to go read a book.

But God doesn’t have an autopilot mode.

He is so immensely present in all that he does. Especially when it comes to his children.

Slowly, I am learning. What it means to be a parent, and also what it means to be a child.

God’s child.

I’m so glad he always has a few more minutes for us.

Until another moment,

~Jasmine