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We make no bones about rolling the trashcan to the curb. And we make no bones about driving our vehicle through a carwash to rinse off the dirt. In addition, we make no bones about shredding junk mail that the mailgirl deposits in the box, or taking a shower to strip our smell with soap. You may have a different list regarding how you rid yourself of waste.

I make no bones about trashing bags full of grass that my mower ate or scooping up dog poop in our backyard.

But there are things we keep close to the chest, things we refuse to empty ourselves of. Some folks let them out while others keep on walking like nothing is wrong. Vulnerability is not something everyone can demonstrate. According to Matt Norman- “Not every situation or person is appropriate for revealing your vulnerability.” 

In the early years of our marriage my wife got weary of hearing me say, “Don’t be southern, be honest.” Twenty-five years later our vulnerability has deepened as we refuse to allow a wall to come between us when we’re tempted to give each other the silent treatment. “Honey, we need to talk.”

I was watering 12 newly planted Daylilies in our backyard one humid June afternoon while I talked to our neighbor from across the fence. She was sitting on her deck. After I shared a shocking situation at work, something interesting happened. She shared her story. My vulnerability led to her vulnerability.

The next day I was talking to another neighbor across the street. He is in his eighties. As I stood in his driveway he looked at me, “How is your job?” I stared back at him with no response and then looked down at the cracks in the cement. I looked up and felt comfortable sharing my vocational situation. Again, something interesting happened. He shared his life experiences. My vulnerability led to his vulnerability. 

We’ve known our neighbors for many years. Although I didn’t plan on sharing my story with them, I felt better afterwards. Does vulnerability lead to healing? I believe so, but is it healthy to be solely dependent on friends, family members, and even neighbors to respond to our vulnerability.

What do you do if you are a person who isn’t prone to being vulnerable? Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, NLT, emphasis mine)

No neighbor can provide rest for my soul or yours. Jesus isn’t a last resort. He is “the” resort, the escape, and our oasis. Why not let Him fill your anxious thoughts. Let Him hold you as only He can. Maybe all you need is to be held.

Lyrical music video: “Just Be Held” (Casting Crowns)