Years ago
My dear friend Marie
Was describing a difficult time
In her life.
And it was so difficult.
And she spoke of how
There were times
During the difficulty
That she was angry.
Even at God.
And she told Him so
Because after all,
He did say
That He wants us to
“Pray without ceasing” (1)
So that means
Even when we’re angry.

Even when we’re angry
At Him.

And she had learned
That He can handle it.

He can handle it
When we are angry
Even when we blame Him.
Because we are His kids.

And I started thinking about it
And I think she’s right.
Because it’s kind of like
When I tell my kids
They can’t do something
Or eat something
Or have something
Because I know
As their parent
That it wouldn’t be
The best thing for them.
It might even be
Really harmful to them.
Sometimes they get mad.
Because they really want it.
And sometimes they get mad
Because they really don’t want it.
(Who knew brushing your teeth
Would incite so much anger
From such a little person?)

And I can handle it.
Because they are my kids.

So I’m totally willing
To work through it with them.
And have hard conversations about it.
Because I love them
And I want what’s best for them
So that they can become something
That they want, too
Even if they disagree with me
About how to get there.
Because one day
They will understand.
And we will both be
So happy and grateful
When they get there.

And so
God can handle it.
Because I am his kid.
Because His motive is always love.

And He’s totally willing
To work through it with me.
And have hard conversations about it.
Because He loves me.
And He wants what’s best for me.
So that I can become something
That I want, too
Even if I disagree with Him
About how to get there.
Because one day
I will understand.
And we will both be
So happy and grateful
When I get there.

(1) 1 Thessaolonians 5:17

Photo by Tara Winstead