Walking With Christ

Matthew 6:31-34 (31)Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ (32)For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. (33)But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (34)“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.(ESV)

I’m happily married with three amazing children ages 15(m), 10(f), and 6(m). It’s my job as parent to make sure that they have food, clothing, a place to sleep, and so much more. It’s true that I’m not required to do much more than help them to survive to adulthood, but as their parent, I want to provide so much more for them. I want to give them the world and every opportunity possible. I want so much more for them than they can possibly know.

Yet, my fifteen year old wants to get a job to help out around the house, my ten year old is trying to take over the world, and my six year old already thinks he’s in charge of everything that has ever happened. I think about the responsibilities that I have as their father and I sigh knowing that I will never be able to live up to my own expectations, but I will certainly do my best and make sure that they always have the things they need. I’m willing to sacrifice so much just to see them succeed.

I also can’t help but shake my head at the idea of them trying to take on adult responsibilities while they are still so young. In my mind, the idea is ludicrous.

Taking a step back, I think this is, in part, how God, our Father, views each of us. We constantly try to take on responsibilities that are and never were ours. We want to hold onto things for far longer than we should and make excuses for why we won’t let go.

It’s like the song from (personal favorite) Casting Crowns – Just Be Held:

So when you’re on your knees and answers seem so far away
You’re not alone, stop holding on and just be held
Your world’s not falling apart, it’s falling into place
I’m on the throne, stop holding on and just be held
Just be held, just be held

It’s ok to let go and just be held.