This morning when reading Colossians 3 I was reminded about
how we are called to live as Christians.
Paul lists over a dozen ways. The list includes gentleness, patience,
forgiving and accepting others. Yesterday I had moments of just the opposite…impatient,
harsh, and feeling justified in holding onto my rights over being wronged. I really
desire to please God in every moment but I fail more than not.
I vividly remember when Rebekah was learning how to walk. She
wobbled as she stood on her chubby little legs, would take half a step and then
fall. I would help her stand back up to try again. A process that was repeated
many many times before she was able to take firm steps without falling. I would
clap for Rebekah to keep trying and felt great joy, pride and pleasure in watching
her learn how to walk. This week my counselor reminded me that that is how God
see’s us in our walk with Him. We all have days when we stumble and fall. God
isn’t watching us with disappointment or disapproval. When we fall we are met
with God’s outstretched hand ready to help us stand back up. He claps and cheers
for us as we become stronger and He is pleased with our efforts to walk in ways
that honor Him.
When we remember this, we don’t feel guilt or shame when we
mess up. We confess and take God’s hand and look into Jesus’ face and see Him
clapping and cheering for us as we grow stronger. Today may our steps be
lighter as we embrace the freedom we have in God’s help and love
for us.
