The Wilful Sunflower

At camp, the speaker read this poem to us. It reminded me of the short story My Heart Christ's Home by Robert Boyd Munger, which I read when I was 17. Says the same thing, but in fewer words. I was particularly touched by the continued affirmation, "I like what I see." God likes what He sees in me... even though I'm so far from perfect.

Also, it was a reminder that God accepts us just as we are. I'm always grateful when I think of how patient He is with me. Surrendering to God is not the instant all-or-nothing proposition we sometimes portray it to be. As the camp speaker said, "Gradually we let Him in more and more until we surrender the whole."

Covenant
by Margaret Halaska

The Father knocks at my door, seeking a home for his son:

Rent is cheap, I say.

I don't want to rent.
I want to buy, says God.

I'm not sure I want to sell,
but you might come in to look around.

I think I will, says God.

I might let you have a room or two.

I like it, says God. I'll take the two.
You might decide to give me more some day.
I can wait, says God.

I'd like to give you more,
but it's a bit difficult.
I need some space for me.

I know, says God, but I'll wait.
I like what I see.

Hm, maybe I can let you have another room.
I really don't need that much.

Thanks, says God, I'll take it.
I like what I see.

I'd like to give you the whole house,
but I'm not sure—

Think on it, says God.
I wouldn't put you out.
Your house would be mine and my son would live in it.
You'd have more space than you'd ever had before.

I don't understand at all.

I know, says God, but I can't tell you about that.
You'll have to discover it for yourself.
That can only happen if you let him have the whole house.

A bit risky, I say.

Yes, says God, but try me.

I'm not sure—
I'll let you know.

I can wait, says God.
I like what I see.