lately i find myself back on those monkey bars. it seems life right now is a lot like swinging from those rungs. as much as you would like to have a safe, two-handed grip on life, i'm discovering that won't get you anywhere. you have to let go to move forward. now this is an interesting concept because letting go is never easy. whether it be of a person, your home, or your comfort, it's simply not a natural human response.
when you let go on the monkey bars you are left dangling by one arm. you feel helpless, unsure, vulnerable even. it is tough to let go of the familiar and swing out in faith. but i think that is what Christ calls us to--a life of self denial and dependence on him as we steadily advance through his kingdom. and when we do let go, it is imperative that our grip be fastened to Him. for apart from Him we can do nothing.
you have to let go to move forward. i'm still not completely sure what this looks like for me everyday, yet i feel there is truth and nesessity in this idea. for i know the life God has for me is one that is full and satisfying. and a story as adventurous as His can only be lived if i let go of those safe rungs, hold fast to him, and swing forward. "don't let your hearts be troubled. trust in God, trust also in me."
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pic of the day (from Mize): Ashley and Erika at night
2 comments:
I would love to have some sarcastic, witty and clever comment about my prowess at the monkey bars, but after many years I can now admit it: I was a monkey bar failure. Blame it on the short arms, sweaty fingers, or fear, but there were many days I spent dangling. Such is the beauty of your simple and deep words. We can all relate to dangling there -- the moment between security and separation -- the fear of letting go. Thank you for applying our every day lives into the lessons that we need every day. That is one of your many gifts, thanks for sharing it with us.
I like to think about that moment when you let go and for a split second you feel the cool breeze running across your face and the excitement of something new coming at you. A next step, a new face, a great friendship. Then the exhilaration as God guides your hand to the next bar and the security you feel as you arrive to it. The bars we're holding onto now had to be earned by faith in the first place. A lot of times I forget that I got where I am by the grace of God and my belief in him. That is strength enough to let go and trust God with the next swing! love you bro Cal
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