For the last few nights, I've been listening though the baby monitor as my sweet boy lays in his bed. He has just turned 6 and has always slept in my bed. At first it was convenience, then necessity and now just comfort. I admit it's a comfort to both of us. I am reminded that he is little only once and I do love those night time snuggles when it's just he and I reading a book or talking about our day. I even love the fact that he sleeps on his stomach just like I do and steals the covers in the middle of the night. But upon turning 6, we agreed it was time to get out of our comfort zone. So we have made the "5 minute rule."
I go with him into his room, turn on the night-light and tuck him in. We give our hugs and kisses and then I head off to my room. I listen in through the monitor as he settles himself in. Sometimes he talks, sometimes he sings and sometimes he cries out to come back to my bed. Occasionally he falls asleep in there. Most nights, he lays there and waits for his 5 minutes to be over. He's surprised me by being able to stay in the bed for about 20 minutes before he wants to come back.
Tonight as I listened to him talking through the monitor I realized the parallel between out situation and that of mine with my Heavenly Father. There are times in my life when I talk, sing or cry, just waiting for my Father to hear me. Sometimes I wait for my time (or trial) to be over. But regardless of my situation, I know my Father is listening to me. He hears everything that I'm going through. He knows when I'm trying to be brave or when I'm reaching out of my comfort zone. Sometimes he's even the one who pushes me in that direction. But He's always there for me to call out to.
Tonight as my boy came running back to my bed, I also ran to my God in prayer. I am thankful for these lessons and these reminders of His love.
