No Bunny Behind

Stella has a playpen of sorts that we place her in if and when we have to leave the house. In addition to a few treats, I place a stuffed bunny gifted from Niani for "our rescue fail" and typically a teething bone. Whenever I return home and unzip the flap to the playpen, I take Stella outside. Like clockwork when she returns inside the house, she returns to the playpen to retrieve her bunny. When I tell you that action ministers to my soul I am serious! Stella in her five month old puppy wisdom demonstrates the posture that we must assume as believers. If you've ever found yourself incarcerated in paralyzing thoughts, seemingly disruptive circumstances, inaccessible peace or failed expectations, you can understand what it is like to witness others who present as though they are walking in the favor of God with minimal tribulation. While they may not possess the power to alter your state of being, the desire to be seen and "rescued" is amplified. Isolation can be a devastating state, which is why it is critical for us to conjure the spirit of Harriet and return to help those who stand in need.

We've all been "there." The important principle is that like childbirth, while we may not ever be able to recreate the pain (unless of course we go into labor again), we remember that it was indeed painful. The same is true as those in community around us when they experience pain. We can walk alongside them, providing support, assurance, love and safety until the storm passes. God instructs us in His Word through this passage, "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat; but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers" (Luke 22:31–32 NASB)."

Particularly during this season, it is easy to keep a running list of all things unresolved or blocking our happiness. As such, may we be encouraged to find ways to connect to others and affirm them in ways that counter what the world is attempting to orchestrate. We must provide whatever resources at our disposal in addition to prayer and embrace. As I was writing this blog in my head, I heard my Pastor, Sharon Dean say during the Sunday Sermon, "We can't get comfortable in our freedom. We have to go back and get others!" My God! That is what Stella models. When we get our freedom, as we get our freedom, may we be intentional to ensure that we are not alone. Christ freed us from what left us bound. No bunny or body should be left behind.