If I were looking for either Jesus or our Father in Heaven in Wal-Mart or on the street would I look for the bearded, white-robed, glowing man? Would I expect Him to be there? Or would I think of Him seated on a golden throne in some distant universe, sending random blessings to some, and troubles to other lowly souls. Most pictures we have seen of Jesus Christ or our Father in Heaven are of a man in a white robe, longer brown hair, with a beard and mustache. Facial features appear generic. Some pictures portray them as so light that their features lose detail. Usually the eyes bore through you like a drill sergeant scrutinizing every action, waiting to execute punishment for the slightest misdeed. How often have you seen a portrait of Jesus smiling? Those portraits are few, but they are treasures.
I listened to a young man as he remarked that he often does stupid things. I asked him, if he knows these activities are stupid, why he does them. “Because they are fun at the time.,” he said. He then commented that he does not like anyone in authority. I suddenly realized how he perceives God. To him, God is an authority figure, beating out senseless rules in stone and demanding obedience, or else. To him, God is a fun-sucker, vacuuming all the fun and excitement out of life. I know others who see their relationship with God similar to a cruel landlord and a delinquent tenant. Others feel He enjoyed the creative process, but has now moved on to new projects, no longer involved or caring about this world or the people on it.
I believe that because we are children of a loving God, He is very much involved in our world.
I believe that because we are children of a loving God, He is very much involved in our world. Why would our Father or our Savior not walk in WalMart as a customer or an employee. Jesus might sit in the bleachers of a football game with a bag of popcorn, cheering for the home team. Perhaps Jesus is the beggar on the corner looking for those who will serve even the least of men. Do I know Him when I see Him?
When I pray, I like to create a picture of God in my mind. He may have shorter hair and may have shaved. I might see Him in jeans or cargo pants and a casual shirt. We may be walking. He may splash His hand or toes in a creek as we walk, or show me the tiny details of a flower. He may casually show me vibrant colors in reflections. I often picture Christ beside me at the grocery store, a glint of humor in His eyes as He says, “You really don’t want that sugary pastry, do you? It doesn’t even taste THAT good.” I think of Him embracing me in a strong hug and I smell a hint of the mountains. His eyes to me, milk chocolate in color, gaze into my heart. Not in a piercing way, but so full of love and kindness that my own eyes bubble with tears.
I see Him listen intently. And when I pour out my mucky sludge of anger, disappointment, fear, or lack of forgiveness, He patiently waits. I ask Him to take it all and cleanse my heart. As I give it to Him he smiles, takes my junky mess and washes it downstream or tosses it in the air, purifying and transforming my muck. It becomes radiant multicolored bubbles floating on the air or water. I feel the heavy weights gone. I see joy radiate in His eyes and smile as He gives a high five and a hug. I see the Savior sit near me on my sofa as I journal or study. He pets my standard poodle as I ask Him questions. I listen and write the thoughts that come. I see the Holy Ghost sitting across the room filling my heart with confirmation of truth.
Creating this image of a very involved and loving Father and Savior, changes how I pray. God is no longer an aloof, distant authoritarian, or a somber portrait on a wall. I have a new, interactive picture. He is real. I feel Him near. He laughs. He can be spontaneous and joyful. Or he can be serious as He listens, instructs, and forgives. I can dump all my pain and worries on His shoulders. I can trust Him. If I invite him, He is a part of everything I do. He guides me in business, parenting, marriage and even driving. I see a loving friend who looks more like the most likable guy in town. How do you see God? What is your picture?