I Love You More

“And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
Ephesians 3:17-19 (NIV)

Arise and shine, dear one! God is with you!

I was exhausted, and it was finally time to start the bedtime routine, beginning with the youngest of my four kids. It had been one of those days where he relished the summer sunshine and pool time but didn't want to stop the fun when it was time to go home. My brain was worn out from the back-and-forth over consequences and why he needed to listen.

I was done and ready for a quiet moment to myself once he was in bed for the night.

"Good night, Levi. I love you!"
"Good night, Mom! I love you more!"

His sweet voice melted my heart, and a gentle reminder hit my soul… how much more my Heavenly Father loves me than I can even imagine, including on those hard days when my attitude isn't what it should be or when I've struggled to obey Jesus.

In Paul's prayer for the believers in Ephesus, he desires for them to grasp how wide and long and high and deep the love of Christ is, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge — to be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. There's an abundance beyond measure in that description. The love of Christ knows no bounds. His love doesn't diminish because of our behavior or lack of obedience. Jesus doesn't tire of caring for His children, no matter how long the days may feel to us.

As I tucked my son in, my mind wandered to imagining Jesus tucking me into bed. I pictured myself whispering to Him:

"Good night, Jesus. I love you!"

And it was as if I could hear Him whispering back:

"Good night, Darla! I love you more!"

Jesus loves you more, dear one. He always has, and He always will.