I remember when my kids were little, and we used to play the game ‘catch my shadow’. Many of you may be familiar with this simple game, where you walk ahead of your child, and they try to catch or stomp on the shadow on the ground. It was always a big competition in our family, and I did not just let my kids win! At this current phase of my life, I wish there was more time to play ‘catch my shadow’. However, I realize that growing up and moving out of a parent’s shadow is what our kids are supposed to do in life. As I thought more about this concept with the awareness that our youngest daughter is about to head to college, I recognized that it is time for her to create her own shadow in life for others around her to catch. I also thought more deeply about catching the Lord’s shadow in my own life.
Often growing up we are taught to not allow anyone’s shadow to get in our way. We are told to stand boldly on our own and create our own path. As Christians, we are taught to stand boldly for Christ, but I think sometimes we forget that we should still be standing in His shadow while we do that. If we do not try to catch and stay in His shadow while we are learning to live according to our call, then what is the point? We can get so worried about what the next step should be or the tasks on our plate that sometimes we move out front and put God in our shadow for a while. Often this happens without us even realizing it. The concept of staying in God’s shadow may not sound very fun to us over-achievers who like to lead and cast our own shadow, but what are we truly accomplishing if we have not captured God’s shadow before we lead?
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Proverbs 16:9
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3
Although shadows can be associated with darkness and loneliness, that is not the case for God’s shadow. His shadow is one that encourages humbleness, peace, and assurance. Are you ready to stay in his shadow and to work on being ok with not placing Him in yours?
Blessings,
Pastor Hope Terhaar