Let Go… Jesus Will Catch You!

Have you ever seen acrobats perform on the trapeze? I think they call them artists for a reason because the mid-air acrobatics is quite beautiful. The whole event is graceful and seemingly effortless as they soar through the air letting go from the bar, suspended in mid-air for just a moment, and then caught at just the right time. Above all else, it is an extravagant example of faith. The trapeze actually reminds me of a conversation Jesus had with a thief just before his death.

Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”(1)

The man Jesus spoke with was on his last breath. He was literally clinging to life as his final moments drew near. It seems he had been clinging to his own way of doing things for sometime but then the unthinkable happens.

The thief lets go.

He lets go of his own methods. He loosens the grip on his pride. He opens his hands to answers beyond himself.

Then he had to wait.

This must have seemed terrifying as he placed his trust in one he barely knew. I imagine the time between the thief’s question and Jesus’ answer must have seemed like an eternity. Time must have froze as he suspended in mid-air.

And then he was caught.

Hands clasped as Jesus promises paradise. The whole story is a beautiful exchange. A graceful and artistic display. A perfectly timed rescue.

Let go.

Wait.

Caught.

fLet me encourage you, that faith can look like this for you and me. We can experience the thrilling adventure of faith again. The pain of letting go. The terror of waiting. The joy of being caught. I think I’ll follow in the example of my sticky fingered friend. Care to join me?

1. Luke 23:42,43 NIV

– Kyle Reynolds