And how are we like that child? Far too often we hold tight to our possessions, our time, our money, and our loved ones when we see the possibility of trouble approaching. What's the motivation, the reason? Fear? Lack of trust? Desire to be in control? Maybe all of the above.
In With Open Hands, Henri Nouwen encourages the practice of praying with open hands to let go...and at the same time, remain open to receive. We let go of all that we struggle to keep in our control and receive peace and assurance from the One who ultimately already has control. What if we let go of all our worries, our possessions, and our decisions? What if we cast all our anxieties on Him because we trust that He cares for us (1Peter 5:7)? Would that not free us up to live more in the moment, to love others better, and to receive the joy that only He can give?
As Jim Elliot said, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose." Whatever we think is ours is a gift from God and only temporary, not eternal Perhaps we should focus on being thankful for what we have and holding loosely, knowing we are only caretakers for a time. When we stand back and see "the bigger picture" rather than being caught up in the challenge of the moment, the view is much different, like the difference between looking through a knothole in the fence to watch the parade instead of experiencing its full grandeur. When we step back and try to see from a greater vantage point then maybe, just maybe, we will see what the psalmist acknowledges in Psalm 16:5-6.
"Lord you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
you have made my lot secure.
The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance."
May we strive to live with open hands, letting go of all that weighs us down and leaving us better able to receive the goodness God provides day by day.