When You're Not Okay
The Father Has Always Been Safe
"Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28
The Expectations We Never Had To Meet
Have you ever considered how much energy it takes to pretend?
I don't think most of us are trying to fool anyone. We simply want to believe we're handling life a little better than we really are.
We tell ourselves we should have more peace, more patience, or stronger faith than we feel today.
Before long, we begin measuring ourselves against expectations our Father never placed on us.
We think we should be handling this relationship better. We should be stronger in this season. We shouldn't still be struggling with the same disappointment or asking the same questions.
Jesus never invited us to pretend.
Coming Just As We Are
There are days when I sit with Abba and realize I don't have much to say.
The prayers aren't polished. The questions aren't neatly arranged.
I simply bring Him the heart I have that day.
I've never sensed Him asking me to explain my weariness before welcoming me. He already knows what kept me awake, what has weighed on my mind, and what I'm unable to carry by myself.
His invitation has always been beautifully simple.
"Come."
The Heart Of A Father
I love watching little children with someone they completely trust.
They don't wait until the tears have stopped before climbing into their father's lap. They come because they know they're safe there.
I wonder if we've forgotten what children seem to know so naturally.
Our heavenly Father has never loved us because we were strong. He has never asked us to hide our weakness.
His heart has always been the safest place for weary sons and daughters to rest.
Coming Home
Today isn't about finding better answers or becoming a stronger version of yourself.
Today is simply an invitation to stop pretending.
To stop carrying expectations that were never yours.
To let yourself be loved by the One who has never turned away from your weakness.
You don't have to be okay before you come to Abba; just come.
Reflection
What expectations have I been carrying that my Father never placed on me?
Where have I been pretending instead of simply being honest with Him?
What would it look like to rest in His love today?
Prayer
Abba Father, thank You that I never have to pretend with You. Help me rest today in the safety of Your love. Amen.