Can I run to him?

The kids and I were recently driving in the van and reminiscing about Christmas which led to this conversation...

Olivia: Did Jesus ever grow up?
Michelle: Yep, he sure did.  He was a man and he taught people a lot of important things and then he died.
O: On the cross, right?
M: That's right.  We learned about that at Easter, remember?
O: Right!  He died on the cross, but then he was alive again.
M: Great memory, honey!
O: So he was here on Earth?
M: Yes
O:  But now he's in heaven, right?
M: Right
O: Well, is he ever coming back to Earth?
M: Yes, the Bible says that someday he will come back to Earth.
O: Do you think he will, mom?
M: Yep.  I believe that the Bible is true and it tells us that Jesus will come back someday.
O: I believe the Bible is true too.  So, when is he coming back?
M: We don't know.  The Bible says that no one knows.
O: Do you think he will come to Rochester?
M: Yes, the Bible says that when he comes back everyone will know and we will hear a sound like a very loud trumpet and the clouds will roll back so we only see him.
O: So when I see him, can I run to him?
M: Yes, yes that is exactly the best thing to do.  Just run to him.  Don't wait for anyone or anything.  Run to him, sweetheart.
O: I think I'll make him a picture so that I have a present ready to give to him when he comes to Rochester.

Wow.  That girl is a thinker.  She asks me questions about God or Jesus or angels almost every day.  But that one question: Can I run to him?  That really got to me and I started wondering, how will I react when I see Jesus?  Will I run to him or will I be held back by my shame and my fear?  He knows me and the evil that I am capable of and yet he loves me anyway.  I almost can't bear it at times, that kind of love.  Augustine said, "God loves each one of us as if there were only one to love."  I believe it, but knowing how unworthy I am makes it difficult to accept.  This girl has difficulty accepting a compliment much less the mercy and loving kindness and unknowable love of Jesus.  I just pray that when it's time to meet my maker I'll be running to his open arms.  Lord, free me from my guilt and shame so that I can fully accept your love for me and become a vessel worthy of bearing your name.