I Can Do Nothing on My Own - August 18

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm [120], 121, 122, 123; Judges 18:1-15; Acts 8:1-13; John 5:30-47

My mother liked to say that I was born pushing her out of the way. That I was fiercely independent and that I wouldn’t even allow her to rock me when I was upset. I’ve known for years now that I wasn’t great about asking for help even though there have been more times than I can count when I desperately needed and wanted help. I’m sure that says something about me that a therapist would have a grand time unpacking! As I’ve matured and my faith has grown, I’ve come to accept help more easily, but I still struggle with asking. Which frankly is quite egotistical.

During my 20+ years of working as a social worker I’ve seen individuals who go to great lengths to avoid what’s best for them and try every other option first. Often addicts will try everything refusing to admit that they are powerless against their disease. They will make multiple excuses rather than admit what everyone else sees – that first they need to admit that they need help and then second, get the kind of help real help that comes from a higher power.

The opening lines from today’s gospel from John say it all: “I can do nothing on my own.” Jesus admits that he needs help, and not just any help but help from his father. He describes the Jewish religious leaders who try going to the scriptures, going everywhere but to their father who is in heaven. They are only concerned with individual prestige and status over the kind of truth that only comes from God.

Why do we insist on going it alone? Why do we insist on problem solving everything without first sitting in the presence of God and sharing, honestly admitting what our needs are. God already knows what we need, but admitting our dependence on God is where we tend to fall short. It doesn’t need to be a roadblock. God is always waiting.

 Faithfully,

Sally+

Questions for Reflection and Challenge - How often do our daily thoughts and actions intersect with thoughts of God? What are some ways we unintentionally turn away from God, seeking admiration, approval or praise from others? What would it be like to seek approval and validation from God rather than from those who surround us?