Swimming means many different things to us. For some, it’s a dreaded activity that looks like uncomfortable body exposure, bathing in the germs of others, and excessive redos of hair and skincare routines. For others, jumping in a pool, ocean, or lake can be an oasis—a rocking lull of escape from the norm, a refreshing hug of coolness in the brutal heat of summer.
Now, I find myself having a new experience in water. I’m 9 months pregnant and the pool has become my physical therapist. Floating relieves my joints and makes me feel like I’m JUST me for a while. I spend the rest of my time outside water fighting with gravity, aches, and exhaustion. Then I bop into the water and I’m a free bird again, able to fully enjoy and process this precious time in my life.
Years ago, Modest Mouse (a wonderful band) released a song named "Float On." It’s one of my all-time favorites. When things are tough, this song reminds me of the liberation I feel floating in a pool on a hot summer day. The song points to a perspective that “even if things get a bit too heavy,” we’ll all still float on alright. We’ll be okay.
Outside of buoyancy, what makes anyone so certain that things will work out okay? How do we fully rest in the currents of life enough to feel relief?
I see this very freedom in our Savior, a fella called Jesus. When we begin to fully grasp who He is and His promises to us, we let go a little more. Trust a bit deeper. Slow down and know that we are okay.
Three "Go To's" to Find Weightlessness in Christ:
1. Daily Connection with God
Talk to Him everyday. Multiple times a day. Familiarize yourself with His voice and promises through Scripture.
You can practically do this by walking through Psalms, a beautiful book in the Bible. Many of these poetic anthems speak to God’s goodness and how He’s got us. Psalms 23, 46, 91, and 121 are a few bangers to get you started.
2. Community
Whether your people are poolside royalty or cannonballing off the diving board, swimming is much more fun with a crew. Get connected to a group of people who will point you to the security and safety in our higher power.
You can often connect through small groups or serving at a local church.
3. Serving Others
Role up your sleeves and show up for others who may be sinking. The community is filled with folks who don’t yet have the lifejacket of faith to help them rest and navigate life’s toughest waters. We grow in our trust as we see God provide for others, often through our willingness to serve them.
Look for opportunities with community partners to serve your city. You can also be alerted to serving opportunities with national partners like Operation Blessing who are deployed in disaster areas. Register for alerts with them here.
May the rest of summer bring you moments to wade in and know, whatever may come our way, we'll all float on okay.
Praying for you!
