A Dad's Delight

We are so hard on ourselves. One of our "last year" granddaughters is learning to walk. The other night I noticed that she was teetering from one support to another. She'd go from coffee table to couch and back - often leaning with a big stretch to the next hand-hold.

But in me, I get impatient and frustrated when I see that I am again trusting in that person or this diet or that work to be a saving grace. I notice - because it fails and I fall.

But we're not impatient with Kate as she holds on. Even though it sure limits where she can go now, one of these days she'll be sure-footed and confident enough to toddle into Dad's arms on her own. And what a rejoicing that will be! And she will do it because she's focused on that familiar, smiling face and that "You can do it!"

In the same way Jesus loves us and is delighted in our faltering steps. He isn't frustrated with us because we're still hanging onto other supports - depending on other things or people. He knows that He'll keep calling and that one of these days we will let go and toddle into his smiling triumphant embrace. Jesus says, "If anyone hears My sayings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world." John 12:27-50

Lord, thank you for Your patience and continued delight in us as we learn to walk - with You.