Want to know God?

Parker Memorial Baptist, Anniston

It took much effort for the 4-year-old to crawl into the recliner, maneuver her way through the old man’s legs and arms, find a resting place and snuggle into a crevice between his arms for some quality time with gramps.

This old man, who had faithfully served as a pastor and spiritual mentor to so many through 50-plus years of ministry, took great pride in the fact that his granddaughter wanted to join him as he read God’s Word in quiet moments of meditation. He gazed at her sweet face as she seemed full of contentment and joy.

The little girl pointed to the old minister’s Bible and said, “I want to know God.”

The grandfather needed no more prompting than those simple words. He began to tell the story of God’s love. Of all the opportunities he had enjoyed in his years of ministry, this moment was a highlight. It surpassed bringing the Word to the fellowship of believers weekly, speaking at Bible conferences and conventions and traveling around the world to share with people of different languages.

To hear his granddaughter say “I want to know God” and then sit patiently and receive his words was an experience beyond description.

After hearing his explanations, she slipped out of his lap and made her way to other activities. She seemed satisfied with the words that had been shared. She did not make any commitments, but her life had been touched, and she had been introduced to a great God who loves her.

The old pastor knew that this was the start of a journey that would eventually lead to his granddaughter making that most important decision for Jesus. He would now join with her parents, teachers and friends to help water that seed until it came forth into full bloom.

I believe that simple statement — “I want to know God” — spoken by a 4-year-old, 20-year-old or 60-year-old is powerful enough to move the heart of our heavenly Father. He will move heaven and earth to allow someone who wants to know Him to have that privilege. Our heavenly Father, like that grandfather, will consider it a highlight of all His work to tell us about how to know Him.