Relationship With God

As many of you know, I'm reading Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Mannning for one of my bible studies this semester. I came across this quote last night and wanted to share it.

"Has it crossed your mind that I am proud you accepted the gift of faith I offered you? Proud that you freely chose Me, after I had chosen you, as your friend and Lord? Proud that, with all your warts and wrinkles, you haven't given up? Proud that you believe in Me enough to try again and again? Are you aware how I appreciate you for wanting Me? I want you to know how grateful I am when you pause to smile and comfort a child who has lost her way. I am grateful for the hours you devote to learning more about Me; for the word of encouragement you passed on to your burnt-out pastor; for your visit to the shut-in...What you did to them, you did to Me. I am sad when you do not believe that I have totally forgiven you or you feel uncomfortable approaching Me."
-Brennan Manning, Ragamuffin Gospel

I think that this quote kind of sums up what it means to be in a relationship with God.

I like how Brennan adds the part about what we do towards others, we do towards God. This week is Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week at my church. Last night, at worship, they talked about some of the struggles of being homeless or hungry. All week, my church is doing things to reach out to those who are suffering.

God being proud of us is something I have heard a lot about as well. I've heard about God being our parent and being happy and proud of us. The quote above really put this into perspective for me.