The Shadow Of My Porch Swing - The Presence Of God - Part 3Sample

THE BICYCLE

When my twins turned five, they were finally big enough to get a bicycle. It wasn’t that they couldn’t ride one sooner, it’s just that they were so small and short that only a tricycle fit their legs. Their dad and Poppy braved the Black Friday crazies to snag two blue and red bikes as this extra special Christmas gift. I’m not sure who was more excited, us or them. Knowing for weeks that they had this secret gift tested my poker face to the max. Finally, Christmas arrived and the bikes were revealed. Immediately, their trikes were shoved aside as they straddled the seats and begged to ride and ride. Daddy provided tips and encouragement as they embraced this new adventure. They were determined to learn to use this gift well, pushing each pedal to its full capacity. Off they rode, far further than they could ride before, while their daddy looked on with pride.

Five years later our struggles are not with fitting on a bike, but with fitting in among peers. Each one of my boys possesses unique and special gifts that make them incredibly special and different. It’s like the bicycle among the sea of trikes. As adults, we look on with special insight. We know the gift is so much better than that which is familiar. With a little encouragement, advice and practice, it can take them much further and allow them to see infinitely more than before. But it’s a scary thing. Riding away from the familiar on a gift that looks so different from the rest. Learning to work hard, use your gift well and push to your full capacity. And so we encourage and cheer, full of pride when they decide to try again. “Don’t hide your gift,” I whisper.  Your Father picked it out especially for you and He can’t wait to see you use it!

What gift or talent have you set aside because of fear? What have you given up on because it requires effort?

Father, you see my uniqueness as a prize to be treasured. Often, I see my differences as hindrances. Give me courage today to use the gifts you picked out especially for me.