Chased – {Advent}

It was just an average day in our household. Oscar and I were in the driveway about to head to school. A lady passed by, walking close enough to exchange a friendly “hello” with Oscar.

But Oscar wasn’t done. Deciding she needed a hug, he took off after her, arms wide open, with me sprinting behind him to catch him! Finally, she noticed, turned around, and received the hug he was so eager to give.

I witnessed a beautiful picture of love – freely given and unconditional. Oscar hadn’t hesitated or questioned whether this lady needed a hug; he simply gave it. As one of my other boys observed afterward, “You never know, she might have needed that.”

Oscar’s simple act of chasing after a stranger with love reminded me of God’s love. Just like Oscar, God chases after us with arms open wide, ready to embrace us, whether we’re aware of it or not. His love is constant, even when we feel unworthy or unaware of how deeply we need it.

During Advent, we are reminded of this divine pursuit. The God of the universe chose to come near to us, to walk among us, and to extend love so generously through the gift of His Son.

As we journey through Advent, may we open our hearts to God’s love and let it overflow to those around us. Just as God pursues us, may we also pursue others with kindness, compassion, and grace.

After all, you never know who might need a reminder that they are loved.