Not needed but wanted

 I read a blog post today about how God doesn't need us. 

He doesn't need our help to fulfil his plans, in fact his work would unfold much more smoothly and efficiently without our efforts. Think of the times you've said or done things that are hurtful, destructive or just incompetent (or not said what you know you should have). Think of the times you haven't done (or tried and made a mess of) what you know God's prompting you towards; the loving deed, brave act, important task. Think of the times God's stepped in to work things out despite your contributions, but has a lot more healing to do because of them.

God doesn't need us to save the world, that's definitely something only Jesus could do, but God does want us to be part of his work in it.

We're like the small child who helps mummy or daddy and is convinced his/her contribution to washing the car or making the cake is vital, when mummy or daddy would complete the task faster and more smoothly without that help. 

Life isn't about tasks. Life is about relationships. Relationships with God and with each other.

From the beginning God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) was in joyful relationship and humans were created to share that joy.

Parents don't let small children get involved with tasks because their help is needed. They involve them for the joy of strengthening the relationship, getting to know each other better, teaching and seeing the child grow in skill and confidence. Not efficient but loving. 

Not needed but wanted. 

Holding the rope

 Often God brings to your attention the right things at the right time; it's one of his caring characteristics.

Recently I came across a quote from William Carey (the missionary to India) which is speaking to me clearly during my time in the UK. He was hearing God's call to overseas work and said to his friend, "I will go, if you will hold the rope." 

You can imagine the person at one end of the rope climbing a mountain, exploring a cave, swimming far out to sea or being lowered into a deep well. It's possible to do any of these things alone but far more likely to end in disaster. The person heading into the unknown may be taking the obvious risks, making the sacrifices, living dangerously or excitingly, but the ones holding the rope have also accepted a huge responsibility. Their lives have been altered too. They have committed to care and support the other. If they let go there will be consequences.

The analogy shouldn't be taken too far. When God calls he doesn't send you out alone or with only human company. He is always there to guide and support but he chooses to have us work together, learning and growing with others. There are many different, though equally important roles, people at both ends of the rope, both being obedient to the task the Lord has given them, neither taking the responsibility lightly.

Thank you to everyone who has kept hold of our rope in the close to ten years since we followed God's call overseas. Glory to him who ultimately has kept us attached.