Devotional - Spring 2023

Devotion and Delight in Him

by Maddie Harvey

Even the sparrow finds a home,
and the swallow a nest for herself,
where she may lay her young,
at your altars, O LORD of hosts,
my King and my God.
Blessed are those who
dwell in your house,
ever singing your praise!

Psalm 84:3-4

Photo Credit: @kaileyedwardsphotography

My daughter, Irinea, was born this past November.  Before she came into this world, we created a place for her in our home and filled it with things just for her. We hung beautiful mobiles for her to look at and wonder about, and stocked up on baby essentials.

I'm sure most of you are well aware, having a new baby is like having three full time jobs. Ninety percent of the day (and about sixty percent of the night) either my husband or I give her our full attention. Between feedings we play with her, talk to her, change her, rock her, and see to her every need.

Every now and then, when we are focused on something else like cooking, cleaning or working, she decides to beg for attention. She says "uh. Uh!" to her daddy and points her chin in his direction. When he looks over and responds to her, she immediately smiles and brings her hands to her face, enjoying being the center of his focus. Her response is pure adoration and joy.

It reminds me of my relationship with God and how I delight in Him. It reminds me that He created this beautiful world and carved out a place for me to dwell in it. He surrounds me with beautiful, wonderful people and things. He looks at me with devotion and love. He not only attends to my needs but enjoys me as His child, wanting the very best for me and wanting me to experience His love and attention. I am reminded, by my daughter, to boldly seek Him and enjoy His perfect love for me that He might have my complete devotion and my delight in Him.

Lord, thank you for the blessings of life and this beautiful place on earth that You have created for me, and for the loving people You have surrounded me with. Thank You for the gift of Your spiritual blessings for me to dwell close to You. You turn Your face toward me, and I am filled with such joy, awe and love.