Last night I was babysitting after I got off work. Since I started working at the preschool,babysitting seems so much simpler.. (2 kids vs. 15) I had the privilege of being with some of the sweetest kids I know.
Well, it was bedtime for the four year old. We prayed and read and and sang songs. Put the blanket up in the air, i wrapped her like a burrito and started to walk away.
"wait Miss Malia!"... It began.
The excuses. I'm thirsty, I need to go potty..
"You went potty, we already drank out water, I did tuck you in... It's time for sleep now", I assured her.
And then she found a new one.. "but..but my poooony!"
Uh oh. I did forget that.
Uh oh. He's in the car on mommy&daddy's date.
Tears came. "I can't sleep without my pony. I need my pony. I'm scared without my pony. I'm sad without my pony. I need the pony!"
Mind you, there are tons of other stuffed animals. But she was thoroughly convinced the pony was absolutely necessary.
I did the only thing I could..haha " baby, your pony isn't here. You have to sleep without her. But, you know who is always with you and will be with you even when your pony is gone?"
"who? Oh..you mean Jesus."
"exactly " I told her. I
was excited that she knew that. I went on to remind her how big and powerful and great Jesus is and how much He loves her.
And I said "which is better Jesus or your pony?" I was confident this would solve all our problems, she would sleep and I would read :)
"Jesus AND my pony" she whined.
She just couldn't imagine sleeping without the pony and was happier and more secure with the idea of both.
It hit me, I'd have to take a different approach
But also how that is me so often. I know Jesus. I love Him. I know how He satisfies. I've tasted His goodness and seen the benefits of walking with Him and being His child. And sometimes, lots of times, my hearts cry is Jesus AND _______.
You name it.
Jesus and a full time job. Jesus and the dress I bought with my tithe money. Jesus and being acknowledged/appreciated/loved. Jesus and a husband. Jesus and time for myself. Jesus and my friend's approval. Jesus and a life plan.
In the same way I thought "you've got to be kidding me, it's a stuffed pony!" I must remind myself that Jesus is better. That He's ALL I need and that He ALONE with satisfy my soul.
Psalm 34:8-9
"Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack! "
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