A friend came up to me, placed her hand on my shoulder and whispered, "Jesus doesn't play it safe."
A well-timed word from Papa always warms my spirit. I could only giggle in that moment at how spot on it was for me. It brought joy to hear Him speak through someone else who had no idea what thoughts crossed my mind prior to her speaking out that truth.
I continued to ponder that revelation as I rode down the crowded Thai streets, ringing my bike bell to notify the cars of my presence. Major changes occurred in all of our lives as we exited Nepal and entered into Thailand: team changes, identity crises and borderline brokenness. I stepped into a new season as a squad leader, becoming a one-third of trio (or tree-o given our team name is Tapestree because we're a clever bunch). In the matter of a moment everything comfortable got flipped upside down. One day I was a part of the amazing sisterhood of Broken Chains, the next I got invited to squad lead and the following day I began training with my new team. Talk about transition ..
"Jesus doesn't play it safe." In the midst of the transition, insecurities became more apparent and I couldn't hide any longer. I had to enter into the deep end; staying on the shore never allowed me to enjoy the freedom of the open water.
All along I sought to protect, to guard myself from risk and dangers because I didn't want to experience the pain of disappointment and abandonment. But in doing that I cut myself off from experiencing true intimacy and success.
We're not created for sterile and safe environments. We're meant for risk and daringly embracing the Father's love for us. Our identity in Jesus is scandalous. Our worth isn't defined by our performance but rather by our Papa's affection for us.
Jesus doesn't play it safe. And neither do I now.
