Sometimes during our day together he will surprise me by jumping on my lap, pawing at my face and gazing into my eyes.  “Do you need some loving?” I’ll ask him then.  I reassure him with gentle strokes on his back, as I lower my eyelids and he mimics with his.  Usually a deep sigh signals his contentment.  He has learned over and over again that when I ask him what he needs, I also plan to provide for him.  He has learned that I am always there for him.

Like Dusty I have someone who wants me to turn my eyes to him, to ask in my needy, messy state for his help.  He wants me to willingly walk with him wherever he leads. I am reminded of a lovely painting of Jesus that graces the front of the sanctuary in my childhood church. It features Jesus knocking at a door, as he looks with a piercing stare towards the worshippers.

Like Dusty, I often find that what I need most is calm reassurance.  I will slowly close my eyes, picturing Jesus knocking at my door.  Then I will hear him say, “What do you need?”  As I look into his eyes, I know that he will always be there for me.