Toward a Deeper Walk

by Marcus Warner

The Importance of Intimacy A heart-focused journey is centered in a relational connection with Christ and not just a performance connection with Him. This was driven home to me one day when I was walking down the hall of the church where I served as senior pastor. My thoughts drifted to an image of an open field. In the middle of the field was a large boulder. I was tempted to dismiss the image as a daydream and refocus on my next project, when something inside seemed to say, “Look a little closer.” I could see the picture in my mind the way a person can see a day dream. As I looked, I could see someone sitting on the boulder. I thought it was Jesus. There was a well-worn dirt path around the rock that formed a perfect circle. I soon noticed a little boy running on the path. Now and then he would look up at Jesus as if to say, “Look at me! Am I doing a good job?” Then, as clear as could be, I heard the words, “You know, Marcus, any time you want to stop running and climb up here, we could spend a little time together!” God had captured the story of my life with a simple image that left a lasting impression. I was running in circles on the path of performance and missing out on the satisfaction and peace that come from enjoying a relationship with Him. I went straight to my office, closed the door, and spent a few minutes enjoying Jesus! I can’t tell you what a difference it made in my day!