Reaching Higher and Digging Deeper
OPENING PRAYER:
Spirit, remind me that you are near and help me be sensitive to your urging.
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
REFLECT:
“Safe?” said Mr. Beaver; “don’t you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells you? Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.” – C.S. Lewis: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
One of my favorite moments from the Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis is when Lucy is learning about Aslan and expressing her nervousness about meeting this powerful lion. She learns from Mr. and Mrs. Beaver that he is a force to be reckoned with and that there is cause to be nervous, but she is also reassured that even in all of his might, Aslan is good and works for the good of those he loves. Lucy learns this side of Aslan more and more as she goes about her courageous journey through the series.
Even if you’re not a huge fan of this series, I think we can agree that the imagery it presents of Jesus, his love, his power, and his sacrifice, is beautiful. I believe it’s a terrific reminder that following Jesus feels far from safe, but requires us to step out in faith, knowing that God has the best in mind and is ready to leap to our defense when needed, just like we are reminded in Isaiah and throughout scripture.
APPLY:
Stepping out in faith is incredibly scary. Fear tries to stop us from reaching higher and digging deeper. Take time today to think through how you’ve let fear stop you from stepping forward in faith. Ask God to show you the ways that he has asked you to trust his plans and his goodness. Remember to meditate on the things you know to be true about your God.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Spirit, pull me in the right direction as I seek to step out in faith and obedience. Help us, as the Church, to honor your place in our lives and to be obedient to your guidance.