By Andy Sims

Okay, I’ll admit it. I love Disney princess songs. 

On a recent trip we listened with great delight as our 3-year-old granddaughter belted out one song after another. Her ability to get the notes or words right didn’t matter. Her exuberance (and overall cuteness) were enough to fill my heart. 

“Let’s sing it again, Papa,” she’d shout as soon as the final song ended. And we did. Before long I was singing along too. How can you not love that?

More Than a Song

While they certainly are catchy tunes from timeless stories, that’s not why I love them. The fondness I feel comes directly from the relationship I have with my granddaughter. She’s stolen a place in my heart that nothing else could possibly replace.

When I read the story of Abraham, I see more than just promises being delivered. There was something in that covenant relationship that went beyond the ordinary two-party contract. I see a fondness Abraham may not have expected, but readily embraced. 

God will never stop pursuing us. He has always wanted a heartfelt connection more than a formal agreement or polished performance. Relationship beats religion every time. Why settle for anything less? 

Heart to Heart

Lately I’ve caught myself popping in those Disney princess songs when I’m alone in the car. I know. It sounds creepy. But in a strange way it reminds me of that deep, beautiful connection my granddaughter and I share. So I risk being discovered when I roll up at stoplights in order to experience that bond once again.

It’s worth going after that kind of relationship with our Father in Heaven. Abraham had it, so why can’t we? Not a contract or deal or partnership, but a relationship as soul mates. 

Just to be clear, there are other tunes on my playlist, but nothing that stirs my heart quite the same. If I can love one little girl this much, try to imagine how God longs for you. All this time he’s been pursuing you. Each day is a new opportunity to draw just a little bit closer.

Andy Sims is the director of leadership development for Lifeline Christian Mission (www.lifeline.org). He and his wife, Mindy, live in Cincinnati, Ohio.  They have three grown daughters and one granddaughter.