The god I was raised with always had a slight frown on his face. Much pain was taken to ensure I had sufficient fear of all the things God said no to, so that I would avoid them. So, I tiptoed through life, careful not to take a wrong step; it was not a particularly joyous way to life, but at least I was safe. But, If the god we know lacks colour, life will always feel a little beige. If the god we know is like a oversensitive parent seeing danger round every corner, we will live in fear. If the god we know frowns, we will curb our joy to protect ourselves from the sting of his disapproval. Yet….
What if God is smiling?
Throwing open all of life in its vibrancy and colour; inviting us to enjoy all she has created with a grin spread across her face.
This is the God I see when I take of my goggles of preconception and really look, as if for the first time. I see a god with a big enough sense of humour to create some of the weird and wonderful creatures that walk this earth and swim its seas. I see a God who creates a delicate flower that serves no purpose other than to frivolously touch the world with its fleeting beauty. I see diversity embraced and celebrated, and creativity and exploration encouraged. How does such vibrancy come from a god so bland?
What if God is bigger than fear?
Big enough to allow us freedom? When mistakes inevitably happen, could it be possible that God is neither shocked, nor worried, but more than able to lovingly help us pick up the pieces of our broken world, and heal our aching hearts?
What if we desire rules because we are the ones who are scared? For, if we are made in God’s image, how can our truest desires lead us astray?
What if God says yes?
like a loving parent excitedly introducing their child to new box of Lego. Longing to co-create with them. Taking pleasure in their joy?
What if Devine will is not a tightrope but a wide-open space? What might happen if we truly allowed ourselves to hope and dream? What if we allowed ourselves the gift of enjoying life with all its risks and imperfections. What if we said yes back?