Learning to Walk

I have been participating in our granddaughter, Hannah, learning to walk this summer.   I use the word, participating, because it is far more than simply idle watching.  It takes a combination of two things.  First, giving her enough freedom to make mistakes, fall, and get back up to try again without trying to control her attempts.   Second, picking her up when she does hurt herself in a fall, putting on bandages when necessary, all the while giving constant encouragement.
This has reminded me of our role with each other as we all learn to be followers of Jesus Christ.  It is important to allow others the freedom to make mistakes, fall, and get back up without trying to control their efforts.  Additionally, it is important to be a healing presence when people are hurt.  Over all of this, it is vital to be giving constant encouragement.  As I’ve watched Hannah grow from one or two faltering steps to running I have also become aware that we are all learners.  We are all in need of the freedom to fall, the need for healing from our hurts, and constant encouragement.
Have you thought of yourself as participating in others growing in their faith in Jesus Christ?  Have you thought of others participating in your growing in faith in Jesus Christ?    I believe this is what First Thessalonians 5v11 is describing: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up...”
May you participate in building others up and be built up by others.   May you discover Jesus Christ as the One who empowers us to be participants with each other in growing in Him.