Popsicles

The word itself just brings a smile to my face. Popsicles. They are the remedy to many a tearful child. They are a treat that doesn't have to be recognized as a tummy filler. They are the cold that soothes a busted lip, and upon presentation can halt even the most complicated of spats. Their rainbow colors are a welcome sight that do brighten a moment. And even though they are marketed for children, there is something magic about them that brings back some wonderful outside childhood memories. Popsicles are a staple at my house and my grandchildren know that pretty much, any time they are available especially for outdoor play. Before dinner or after or in-between.And even the dog gets one when the kids are all having one.

Just a molded, colored, sweetened piece of ice on a stick. Maybe it is in the simplicity that the magic is generated. It is a fresh pick me up that regenerates active play. But it truly does have an uplifting effect that sparks a smile and an energetic response especially on the kids. Children do seem to appreciate the simple things that we adults seem to have outgrown or overlooked. They find pleasure in the little things. We on the other hand are seeking bigger and better while they are content with simple.Too many times we overstate or overdo and wear thin from the anxiousness and need for perfection that is attached to our programmed agenda. We lose the fresh perspective that we began with, and become burdened with details. Children, on the other hand just go with what is planned and seem to seek out, or are touched by something of interest no matter where they land.

What if we, just for a day sat back and truly let God present us with the simple popsicles. The sweet and colorful and simple offerings of nature, for example. Yesterday, I walked out the door with popsicles and it was as if time stopped for moment, and then in recognition of the offering, William and Catherine flew out of the pool to accept them. (The exterminator had pushed them into finding an afternoon diversion...love it when they pick my house). God opens the door for us each day with surprises that we so often take for granted. We don't recognize them because we have become too busy to even notice them. We don't find ourselves running to his presence in grateful thanksgiving, because we don't even acknowledge him being in our midst. And in our delay and unconscious awareness those surprises melt away and the moment is gone.

Psalm 19:7
The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.

It is in the simplicity that we see God's trail. The simple words that someone shares, the kindness that someone brings, the thoughtful deed that someone does, and the need for help that someone responds to, the service that someone gives, the forgiveness that someone offers, and the comfort that someone extends. Those are some of God's simple treats.

This may all sound a little to Pollyannaish,,,the popsicle analogy and all. But there is something to the treat of a popsicle. Whether you like them are not, they represent one of the oldest and simplest traditional treats that I can remember. And some of those things that I stated above are also some of the oldest and most traditional treats to any and all of us.

To accept them, we first have to acknowledge them, and to acknowledge them we have to not be hindered down and bulked up with so many distractions that we are not able to see them.

It is the little things, the simple things that God offers that he knows will bring us joy. May we stop for a moment and be aware of God's presence. May we see his extended hand of blessings and run to his side with joy and accept them with graciousness. For his treats will give us fresh insight for our soul, fill our hearts with peace, and satisfy our parched appetite for something sweet.

Dear Lord, It is in the little things that you have offered your joy. May our joy be completed in you, and may we recognize the treats that you offer standing at the door of your kingdom. Amen

Praise God wherever you are and whatever situation He has allowed you to be in . . . His glory will shine through!