“Ask, and you will receive. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened for you.” -- Luke 11: 9
Philippe and his Dad were going backpacking together. They crammed a few snacks and as many supplies as they could into their backpack. Philippe had waited for this special time with his father for months; he couldn’t wait to begin their trek. His mind raced with the anticipation of gushing waterfalls, yummy wild berries and the constant chatter of ‘forest critters.’
They rose early and stood at the foot of the mountain. Philippe insisted on carrying his own backpack, though he could barely even lift it. Dad had offered to carry the load, but the stubborn child refused. Today he would prove that he could do it all by himself.
They stopped at a tackle shop to purchase a few fishing supplies. Although his little back ached, Philippe continued to insist on carrying everything himself. He made a pitiful sight stumbling after his father, trying to juggle a backpack, fishing pole, and pail of worms. But still Philippe ignored his father’s constant offers to help.
He was suffering. Instead of enjoying the beauty around him and the pleasure of his father’s company, Philippe now dreaded each new step. His arms felt like they were going to fall off any moment; his legs ached terribly. Philippe could think of nothing except his exhaustion. But he trudged on.
“My shoulders are big enough for both of us,” Dad repeated several times. Philippe ignored him.
Miles passed dreadfully. When he could simply take it no longer, Philippe said to his father, “I’m so sorry Daddy, I can’t take another step!” He loved his Dad and wanted desperately to please him by carrying his own load, but he had no other choice. “Take them, Daddy,” he whispered, “I’m not even strong enough to hand them to you.”
He didn’t waver; Philippe’s father took both Philippe and all the supplies into his massive arms. As Philippe rested his weary head against his father’s chest, he wondered why he had been so stubborn. He immediately noticed the breathtaking sites around him. He could hear birds singing and savored the crisp mountain air. Best of all, he felt his father’s love engulf him. As he drifted into a peaceful slumber, he knew there was no happier place on earth than in his father’s arms.
And so it is with our Father; we only ask for help when we’ve exhausted all other choices. How foolish! He’s always there for us, eager to carry our burdens.
Father Helper, may everything I do begin with your inspiration, continue with your help and reach perfection under your watchful eye. Let me never forget that help is only a prayer away. Amen.
