Does God Really Miss Us?

I was driving in the car today with my son. We drove by one of those billboards. You know, the big black signs with white lettering as though they are phrases from God? This one said,

"I've Missed You."  - God

It reminded me of other ones I've seen like "Let's get together this weekend" or "Don't make me come down there", which seem to indicate our time with God is fixed on specific moments and that God exists largely separated from us - like that great aunt who lives across the country who we only see during rare family reunions.

I don't know about you, but the "I've Missed You" sign really got me thinking. Does God really miss us? I mean, if He is always with us how can me miss us? Shouldn't it read something like, "I long for your companionship"?

I hold an alternate perspective. I believe our walk with God (which is to be intimate and organic, according to John 15) is 24-7-365. It's just that PART of our walk happens to be with other people engaged in corporate worship. But that's only a small part of our journey. And "I've Missed You" indicates that God and I are somehow separated. I understand the concept of being separated by God because of sin. But I'm coming to also understand that God never leaves us nor forsakes us. He still loves us IN SPITE of our sin. In fact, if I'm not where I need to be, God is constantly pursuing ME. The real truth is I must come to recognize His presence in my life - the presence that is always there already.

So, does God ever miss us? I don't think He does. Does He long for our attention? You bet!

As you serve your span of care this week, live each moment in full recognition of God and His presence in your life and you'll be Serving Strong!

photo credit

Comments

[Karen]

I think it's similar to feeling alone in a crowded room... there are physical people there, but there is no connection. I know there have been people in my life that have gone through tough times, and even though they didn't go anywhere, I missed the intimacy of our relationship.

[Scott Couchenour]

Interesting insight Karen. Thanks for sharing. I think of Jesus like the sun. He's always there regardless if there are clouds and rain or if I can feel the direct warmth on my face.