Let Go

In what has become (allegedly) one of the cheesiest and trite Christian slogans to adorn bumper stickers and T-shirts everywhere, “let go and let God” has, sadly, fallen on hard times.  Why?  Some would argue it’s overly simplistic, perhaps too easily applied. It is, in fact, often used to cut short someone’s litany of trials and tribulations.  Sometimes the use of such cliches can become our default or alternative to actually listening to someone intently and empathizing with them.  Phrases like “let go and let God” can feel like we’re simply applying a “one size fits all” band aid to really complex issues and problems.

But I say this phrase has fallen on hard times sadly because there is, indeed, a time for releasing an effort—an expectation, to God.  It is at the point where we have done what was ours to do and now we must “let go (of the outcome) and let God (do His thing). We are at that juncture with our Christmas preparations. Truth is, the pressure’s off.  Not for you or me to do any less than our very best.  But as it relates to any lives being changed or people coming to Christ next weekend, that’s really up to Him.  What has already occurred, though, is the transformation in us as we have been on this journey together.   Even before the first light comes up or the first note is sung of Convergence, I am convinced that the work of God has already been displayed among us in our preparation of this amazing event. 

I have said it before, and I believe it is worth repeating.  Jesus did not invade our planet over 2000 years ago so that we could do cool programs once a year.  What He did do was to restore our relationship with ‘Papa’ God, so that the act of worship would not be done couched in fear and shame.  His coming to us in human form satisfied once and for all our desire to touch and kiss the face of God.  As Spirit-filled believers, we now can do that anytime, anywhere.  Even in front of our friends and neighbors who may not know Him personally…yet.

My prayer as we enter this demanding week of rehearsals and ‘performances’ is three-fold:

• that each of you will know how deeply loved and valued you are, and how profound is the privilege God has given you to carry on the work of that first angelic chorus on the hillside outside Bethlehem.
• that like those first good-news bearers, you will relax in the knowledge that your role as seen planters is fulfilled. Others may add water and nourishment to that sowing in the future, but it will be God alone who provides the growth.
• that the friends and acquaintances whom you have invited will get a glimpse of just how much you love your Savior, not just singing. In other words, be free to worship Him!

May these days mark your lives and create memories for years to come.  Savor each and every moment.  Thanks to each of you—especially those of you joining us for this special season—from the bottom of my heart for saying ‘yes’ to the call.  With the apostle Paul, I say:

I thank my God every time I remember you. 
In all my prayers for all of you, always pray with joy

because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 
being confident of this,

that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion 
until the day of Christ Jesus.

Finally, I say to all you perfectionists, “let go” may just be the hardest thing you will ever hear, because it involves loss of control.  And for any potential slackers, who resist discipline and love “just waiting on the Lord” (which often translates into “The Lord waiting on you…”), I challenge you to not “let go” prematurely.  Do your due diligence, come prepared, and THEN rest in God. But sooner or later, team, it’s time to LET GO. Let’s do it!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

tad