The Mess of Motherhood: Leaning on Your Good Father to Figure It All OutSample

The Middle Place

I could walk this beach with you forever, my daughter. Did you see those gulls swoop down over there? They are looking for fish. I love watching them, how they glide, wings spread, so beautiful. And then they dive, so unexpectedly. I love how they fly with confidence, intent on the hunt, knowing what they need to do and where they need to go. The wind lifts them, they glide; they swoop again, searching the waters. The waves promise sustenance. They return to what provides. 

My daughter, you can hold my hand or you can let go. I will be here all the same. But at this moment, look around. Enjoy this place, right now. In the midst of the wondering, the searching, the questions—hunt the beauty of here, even in the midst of pain. There are good things hidden in the waters.

You ask me—can there be beauty in pain? Can there be hope in suffering? 

You wonder—can there be joy in the hard places, where there is no clear answer? 

Look to me. Look where I am, in the midst of the hard things. Look to me—I am here, present with you. Look to me—plunge for the truth placed already in your heart. I am with you even when you can’t see me. I am with you even when questions aren’t answered. I am with you, present, when all feels only night. 

Every question will be answered soon. But I change every question.

This beach will be where we stay, even in your yearning. My presence will bring contentment, if you let it. My presence will bring hope, if you want it. My presence will bring joy, if you seek it. 

I am your guide, your landing place—and I will teach you, soon, to fly.

Exercise & Prayer

Open a window. Or take a walk outside. Invite Jesus to be with you, showing you what he sees. Pay attention, yet rest. Let him hold your hand.

Father, give me faith to believe you, even in uncertainty. I give you my discontent. Show me how I struggle, how I ache, how I yearn for something I don’t have right now. Thank you for the desire you give me for more of you. Thank you that you are right here. Everything I really need, I already have. Help me surrender my heart to you, trusting you and the good you always have for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.