If we had the ability to foresee all that would result from each direction we have chosen to move within and through, would it be a gift? A way to project fully, the how and when we would exactly see things turn around for us, or our neighbor, or friend…or the world. To avoid any mistakes, we would just jump ahead and see what the end result was, and pick accordingly. Unfortunately, that luxury isn’t ours. So, what do we do when our trust in the promise begins to doubt and waver? When our life conditions don’t seem to align with what God has promised, can we still trust that He is good, all the time?

Psalm 8:3-4 reminds me how minuscule we really are, yet so loved by a Father none of us deserve. Each of us, players in a unique depiction of humanity. All of us, trying to survive a world that encourages and advocates for blindness, prejudice, entitlement, selfishness, materialism, deception, and manipulation. A place where, anymore, the lines between good and evil are often muddled. Yet, still a place we see kindness, selflessness, joy, sacrifice, laughter, honesty and mindfulness. The two sides of our species.

As the water begins to boil, those who have sat down complacently, are simply waiting for their demise. While those who are beginning to see the dawning light of truth, have begun to exit the pot. They now stand outside, awaiting the discernment God has wanted them to have for so long. Trust strengthened as the exposure of hope, truth and goodness emanate. It’s the moment that eyes begin to open and we realize that we have control over our choice, but not of how any of this ends.

The fantastical stories of our childhood, reflect lessons we already know hold merit. Classic stories creating controversy and debate. Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie, encompassed, many aspects of the struggles and darkness of man; immaturity, carelessness, rejection of truth, unforgiveness…yet, showing that growth, maturity, innocence, goodness, responsibility and trust, still exist. And not only exist, but in the end they are chosen, despite the offerings of a carefree “fun” life.

There are many that have used the Peter Pan reference as a representation of Christians, who they say, are not willing to “grow” in Christ. There is a clear line of judgment in that theory. It separates the “Peters” who won’t grow-up, from the “Wendys” who do. Black and white. It doesn’t acknowledge that Peter WITNESSED Wendy live and trust something he couldn’t understand. The Christian Peter Pan theory doesn’t hold up when by definition, we are all given the opportunity for grace. It’s a theory, that contradicts the whole foundation of Christianity.

We all fall short. We can either trust in the promises He made, or refuse. Growth, like faith and trust, is an action and choice. There is always room and time for a change of heart, mind, body or spirit. There is always time to pour into Him, His word and His people. Some being thrust into circumstances that force that choice to come sooner than anticipated. Trust should be easy for us, especially if we consider His track record. He continues to show his faithfulness, over and over again. As long as we are breathing, we have the ability to redirect, surrender and trust that what God wants for us is far greater than anything the world has to offer.