Learning to Depend

Luke 18:1-17

Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it. Luke 18:17

We are told that in order to be considered a successful adult you must be independent. Independent from our parents and not needing any assistance. In fact, the most desired state to be in is "independently wealthy" which means you have done so well at being independent that you no longer even depend on a job for money. Materially, being independent and taking care of our own needs is a good thing; we should encourage our children to work hard and seek to be self-sufficient. But, if this mentality of independence seeps into our spiritual lives we will have real trouble.

Jesus tells his disciples that anyone who wishes to enter the Kingdom of God must do so like a little child. A child of course is completely and unapologetically dependent upon his/her parents. Children depend on their parents for everything and it is only as the grow older that they begin to think about separating themselves. We must re-learn dependence on God in our lives. We must learn to trust God to take care of our needs and our difficult situations. We must acknowledge the extent to which we already completely depend on God's grace. This is not easy for adults who are independent. We would much rather only use God as divine safety net, only praying when we really need it. But God not only wants our hearts when we are in trouble, but to learn to depend and trust God in all ways.

Jesus not only uses the example of a little child as a model of faithful dependence, but a widow and a tax collector as well. The widow persistently comes to the judge seeking justice. She will not take no for an answer and truly believes she will prevail. Jesus tells this story as a way to illustrate the tenacity needed for a robust prayer life. "Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not lose heart." (Luke 18:1) He also tells the story of the Pharisee and the tax collector who go to the temple to pray. The Pharisee thanks God he is not like the lowly sinners who surround him, but that he is righteous. He depends on himself for his righteousness and not God. The tax collector bows before God and seeks forgiveness.  Jesus concludes by stating: "all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted." (Luke 18:14)

Being dependent on God requires humility, it requires that we confess that we cannot do everything and we need help. What the world might call weakness, God calls strength.  We are called to humble ourselves are learn to trust God. We are called to stop trying to control everything and let God lead. We are called to pray without ceasing and believe that God hears our prayers, listens, and will creatively and powerfully respond. We are called to let God be God. So may we learn to depend and grow spiritually strong.