Sometimes its hard to fathom God’s interest and desire for us. He’s the God of the universe. He could snap his fingers and accomplish all things, but yet he constantly uses us to carry out his plans. God used Joseph to save people from famine. He used Moses to deliver a nation out of slavery. He used many of the judges to delivery Israel from their enemies. The list goes on and on with so many names we know all to well.
We know God doesn’t need us to do what he’s going to do. In fact, his work would probably go a lot faster without us in th midst. And yet he continues to invite us into the work. Why?
It’s all a bit like a dad having his kid hold the flashlight for him while he works on a project. Now, I know that’s not been a positive experience for everyone, but lets imagine what that looks like for a dad dedicated to his role. The father in question could do his work without his child’s help. But by inviting them in to the work he is doing, he gives his child something irreplaceable. He teaches his kid about the work they’re doing. He gives them new skills to solve problems and overcome challenges. He builds their confidence in their own abilities and importance to him. And more than anything else, he builds relationship with his child that will last for the rest of their lives.
No wonder God continually describes himself as our father. That’s exactly the kind of relationship he wants with us. He doesn’t want mindless minions doing his bidding and telling him how great he is. He wants children he can love and invest in. He wants relationship. He wants family. He wants to simply spend time with us.
This flies in the face not only of so much of the world’s messaging to be perfect before you can approach God, but also the idea that God is distant and uninterested in us simply as a person. The reality is deeply personal. God wants you just because it’s you. He doesn’t want you for your victories, or successes, or what you intend to offer him. The delight is in you yourself.
That’s why he invites us to hold the flashlight. Not because we’re the best flashlight holder in the world. But because we’re his beloved flashlight holder. By having us part of what he’s doing he can hold us closer and teach us new things like any father loves to do with his children.
So we can embrace with certainty when God invites us in to moments of relationship and closeness, even if we’re complete little disasters that can’t seem to do any of it right. God has us exactly where he wants us, working close with him, holding the flashlight.
Keep shining the light, Christian. It’s time to work with Dad.
Let’s find some joy,
A
Avalon Robinson Author 