Pursued: A Parent’s Heart and the Father’s Love

Scripture:"I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness." – Jeremiah 31:3

Talking to teens can feel like pulling teeth. One-word, monotone answers. A wall of indifference. As parents, we crave connection, yet every attempt to engage can be met with resistance or dismissal.

Maybe you’ve experienced it: You just want to check in, to hear about their day, to remind them they are loved—and instead, you’re met with frustration. “What are you doing?” they ask, as if your presence is an intrusion. The sting of rejection settles in. Am I annoying? Did I do something wrong?

And then comes the gut punch: Is this how God feels when I don’t respond to Him?

How often do we treat our Heavenly Father like a teenager treats a well-meaning parent? We go about our day, busy and distracted, uninterested in connection until we need something. When life is hard, when we feel lost, we call out—but when He simply desires to be near, we barely acknowledge Him.

And yet, God doesn’t withdraw. He doesn’t give up. He doesn’t walk away in frustration. He pursues.

The love of the Father is relentless. He is always drawing us near, even when we resist. He waits, He listens, He loves with an everlasting love. And as image-bearers of Christ, we are called to do the same.

So, when parenting feels like a losing battle… when rejection stings and weariness creeps in… remember this: God is patient with you. And through His strength, you can be patient too.

Because love doesn’t quit.

Reflection:

• How have you responded to God’s pursuit lately? Have you been distant, distracted, or dismissive?

• In what ways can you reflect God’s patient, pursuing love in your relationships—especially when it’s hard?

• What is one way you can intentionally pursue connection today, whether with your child, a loved one, or with God?

Prayer:Father, thank You for never giving up on me. For pursuing me, even when I ignore You. Help me to love like You do—with patience, resilience, and grace. Give me wisdom and strength as I seek to connect with my children, and remind me that every act of love, even when unnoticed, is never wasted.

Amen.