He Will Carry Us

Several years ago, we took our kids on their first plane ride and out-of-the-country adventure to Mexico. It was quite the trip, full of laughter and memorable moments. Our kids are part fish, so we found our way into the water every chance we could. This meant lots of swimming and snorkeling.

Our first snorkeling venture was not a smooth one, however. As much fun as we had jumping into the river, the freezing water and lack of visibility made our little girl very nervous. The mangrove trees were overpowering, the water was dark, and the designated swimming path was quite narrow. Little One was not happy at all, and was ready to be done before we even started.

When she refused to be comforted or cajoled into embarking on this new adventure, her daddy swam over and placed her on his back. She tolerated it, but just barely. Patiently, he swam at a steady pace, despite the challenge of a little passenger. She looked adorable, perched like a tiny turtle on his back with her blue goggles and serious expression, the very picture of resolve.

About halfway down the cenote (the name for the part freshwater, part saltwater rivers that run from inland to the lagoons), my husband said he felt her begin to relax a little. Her death grip loosened, and she sat more comfortably. Her dad felt bad that she was missing out on the action, since her view was limited to trees and the water line, and the fish and other creatures were down below. So, he raised his head and explained to her that they were going to implement a system. He would swim on as she rode, looking below for interesting things to show her. When he saw something, he would raise his hand on the side she was to look, and she could duck her face into the water to see.

I got to witness their teamwork in action as they came down the final stretch into the lagoon. The boys and I had reached the end and were waiting on them to catch up. I stood watching, along with other guests and tourists, as they swam into sight. Suddenly, my husband raised his left arm, finger pointing up. Without changing expression or pausing for more than a quick breath, our daughter leaned over and stuck her face in the water on the side of his raised hand. After a few seconds, she sat back up, repeating the process several more times to either side as cued by his raised arm.

It was one of the most precious things I’ve ever seen in my life.

I had tears in my eyes even as I laughed, as did more than a few others who witnessed this display of a nurturing father and trusting child. Looking back at this memory, I can’t help but contemplate on what a great literal representation of God’s love it is.

Isaiah 43:2 says, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you” (NIV).

It’s such a simple, yet profound concept, isn’t it? When we’re tired, or scared, or can’t see clearly enough, all we have to do is reach for Father, and he will carry us. He doesn’t mind a bit. We’re not too heavy for him. He knows the way, and will get us there safely. It’s what he does.

Isaiah 41: 10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (NIV).

When we begin to relax, when we finally figure out that he’s got us and it’s all under control, God knows we’re ready for his signal. He’ll start giving us a sign or two, here or there. He’ll point out when and where we need to look, because he doesn’t want us to miss the good stuff. He’s all about letting us in on the good stuff. We just have to trust him, then allow him to do so.

There’s no shame in hitching a ride.

Rebecca Greebon is a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and child of the One True King. She has a passion for sharing with others how amazing they are, how much they are loved, and how blessed every day is, even when we are lost or distracted or completely over ourselves and the world. Rebecca blogs at theriverchick.com.