HOW GOD SPEAKS THROUGH PLAY
Loving God through the Practice of Play
by Lisa Mage, Texas Annual Conference
It is kind of silly that we as adults need to practice how to play with God. As children it comes so natural and uninhibited. Children have an innate comfort and trust level to do and be what they dream of. Sadly as our egos mature and time passes, we pull away from the one who delights in us the most. Yet patiently God waits, desiring us back into ultimate relationship. And when this realization turns to fruition, joyfully we are blessed into a freedom and peace the world does not know. All throughout scripture, God promises to make our joy complete. I can't think of anything more joyful then when I am able to relax and be my true self with God. I achieve this when I surrender myself and explore the possibilities I have buried deep within, trusting in God's unconditional love.
Play engages our imaginations with creativity. Some think they have not an ounce of creativity in them. Being made in the image of the ultimate Creator God we need to overcome our denial and reconsider the infinite possibilities. Give yourself permission to explore and grow. Imagination and creativity are both key components of play. They unlock the desires of our hearts and allow us to taste and experience what we may have once denied.
There are so many ways to play with God. Mirroring popular children's games such as hide'n seek can trigger spontaneity of desire to find God in places and ways you may not have known God before. God the Creator can always be found in the creation. Go on a scavenger hunt looking for God, seeking holiness, purity and simplicity. God's presence surrounds us in all of creation.
Art can be a form of playing with God. Imagine sitting with God alongside a big box of Crayola Crayons. What would the world be like if we changed the color of the sky to emerald green, or the ocean to hot pink? Snow could be purple and people could be striped like zebras. I am sure that would give God a chuckle or two! We can bless God in our times of creativity.
God is calling. So don't take life so seriously. Rearrange your agendas and priorities. Relish in the complete joy that God wishes and promises for us. Give yourself permission, relax and just be. I invite you: make a play date with God. Embrace God's love by honoring time together in play.
