Seek Him With All Your Heart
Picture taken by Teri Knapp
What a blessing it is to have access to blogs and books that are written and illustrated by Christian authors. I find it very encouraging to know that I’m not alone in my struggles, and love hearing how God helps others make it through similar life experiences. One of the blogs that I follow recently caught my attention. It’s called Good Time Stories – Inspiring and Heartwarming Stories, by Rich Muller. The blogger shared a picture of a very unique headstone. It was a statue of a boy standing up on a wheelchair – reaching for the sky. No description was necessary. Without even knowing the story behind it, the picture alone touched me deeply.
As I scrolled down through the comments made below the photo, I read where another blogger had found an article about the boy, Matthew, and attached it below the photo. His life was a miracle. His parents were told that he would only live a few hours after he was born. Thankfully, the doctors were wrong. He lived on this earth for ten years. Although most years were spent in a wheelchair, that didn’t stop this young boy from bringing joy to his family and to many others. When he passed away, his parents wanted something to remind others that this is not our home. Engraved on the back it had these words: In memory of those who walk more closely in the hands of God. And who more humbly lift the world inspiring the hearts of men. With their legacy complete in love, they return home again to God. To behold His face and be wholly healed in joy forever more.
Even more intriguing was that I learned that this young boy was buried in a cemetery in Utah – where I just happened to be when I read the article. Suddenly, I had this strong desire to go see it for myself. This was so unlike me, but for some odd reason I wanted to see if it really existed, or if it was just a made up, ‘feel good’ story. After my husband and I drove around this huge cemetery (the cemetery’s office was closed), we finally found it – with the help of a man who was walking by. When I saw it in person, I stood and stared in awe – almost in disbelief. It was the best feeling ever to learn that this heartwarming story was true. Although I never met him or his parents, I felt such a connection. I had tears because of the story behind it, but also because I realized that I could trust what the blogger shared. The truth is an awesome thing.
When we left the cemetery, I started thinking about my faith and my relationship with Christ. I’ve been a Christian for about 30 years, and I wish I could say that I’ve always been as passionate about my relationship with Christ as I was in looking for this headstone. Although there’s no comparison, finding the cemetery made me remember that thrill and joy of finding Jesus.
Whether you are just beginning your walk with Christ, or you’ve traveled with him for many years – I hope this is a good reminder for you. Making a commitment to Christ isn’t just a one day happening. If you want to know Him, you need to seek Him with passion. Read His Word. Praise Him. Talk to Him. Look for Him – every day.
“You will seek me and fine me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
Live-Write 