One of the greatest joys of life for my beloved and me are the ways our sweet little two-year old granddaughter continues to change and grow. Yes, maybe too fast. On the other hand, her eagerness to discover new things brings a delightful sense of adventure to most every day.

Over the past months she has begun to do something most toddlers do. Sooner or later they spot a pair of grown-up shoes, in this case Nana’s ‘round the house sandals. On several occasions now she makes a point to carefully place a foot in each one, and then, with determined, focused attention, begin her journey across the kitchen floor headed for another room and the next fun thing. Obviously, the shoes are way too big, yet there is something about taking those uncertain steps that intrigues her.

While our granddaughter has taken a couple of gentle tumbles in Nana’s shoes, she also sports an ear-to-ear grin when she plops from one place to the next. She is definitely having fun as she learns about gravity and balance.

Unlike curious toddlers, adults usually become more cautious as the years unfold. Probably due to some unpleasant outcomes, we are much more resistant to risk-taking of any sort. At the same time, we also sense the unknown or the new may offer fresh insight or unexpected delight and joy. No doubt, it takes an “I’m-going-to-step-into-too-big-a-pair of shoes” attitude to venture forth for the blessings God desires to give us.

For example . . .

Shoes that may seem too big could be the choice to try on a new attitude or perspective about a certain relationship.

Shoes that may seem too big could be the choice to step out into a new job or ministry opportunity.

Shoes that may seem too big could be the choice to walk the extra mile with someone whose lifestyle is very different than ours.

Shoes that may seem too big could be the choice to forge ahead with a difficult decision and trust God to work all things to good.

Like our precious toddler, we will likely stumble and fall on occasion. However, if we choose to persevere—get up and try again—we just might discover a wonderful new aspect of life we could never have envisioned in our wildest imagination. Maybe that blessed surprise is simply across the room and around the corner, waiting for us to plop-plop our way in that direction. And in the process, feel the ear-to-ear grin spread across our face.

Do I tend to avoid choices that seem “too big?” Why?

How do I feel about Jesus’s invitation to be “as a child?” [Matthew 18:3]

What big pair of shoes might I put on today?