Willing To Waterslide
Our local community run an annual festival. And every year the scouts construct an amazing water slide down a huge hill. What starts out as a couple of tarps and a water pump becomes hours of endless fun for many children.
Before we had even arrived at the festival I had mentioned this slide to our four-year-old. He had not remembered it from the year before, as he was too young, and so the whole trip into town was filled with much anticipation.
I had remembered how large the slide was and was not confident our little four-year-old would want to have a go. So I prepared him for some possible disappointment if the slide was not what he imagined it to be.
However, when we got there, he did not hesitate.I marvelled at how brave he was to give it a go. This small little boy jumped at the opportunity to try something new with the chance that it would be fun and bring him joy.
His willingness and bravery actually challenged me personally. Often, as an adult, I hesitate and question whether I will engage with something new rather than just giving it a go. I need to have all the T’s crossed and the I’s dotted before I will commit myself completely.
I think I need to learn from the attitude of my four-year-old. There are times when it would be better for me to give it a go first rather than needing to know all the details.
When Jesus called his disciples he was asking for an all-in commitment. And many of them jumped in quickly and completely even though they could never be fully aware of all the details.
Sure, we need to use the wisdom God has given us but let us not use it as an excuse to hold back on all God may have in store for us. May we, like the disciples, have such faith in Jesus that we are willing to jump in as enthusiastically as my four-year-old on a waterslide.
Lord, may I have the courage to commit to You completely. I know that no matter what happens You will be there for me always. Amen.
What do you need to commit more fully to?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.