When I Saw My Son Drowning

It happened in a matter of seconds.

We stormed through the gate at the hotel pool with kids, towels, floaties, and a stroller. Still wearing my street clothes, I stood next to the water playing pool police while Luke secured the little ones in life jackets.

Our 4-year old son, who knows how to swim, waded down the steps with confidence. But this marked our first time at the pool since the previous summer, and time took its toll on Micah’s memory. He forgot how to swim, but didn’t know until it was too late.

I spotted him first and shouted, “Luke! Micah!”

Since Luke was only a few steps away and wearing his swimsuit, I figured he was the guy for the job. I assumed my tone would communicate the urgency of the situation and expected Luke to hop right in and rescue Micah.

But he didn’t.

Luke looked at me confused. He didn’t see Micah. He didn’t know what was happening. And every second I waited for Luke to save our son, Micah struggled to breathe.

I stood steps away. I knew he needed help. But because I reasoned someone else was more prepared or better suited for the job, I did nothing.

For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink,  I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’” Matthew 25:42-43 (ESV)

I share one of the worst moments of my motherhood with you, because I see the same principle at work in our spiritual lives. We see someone drowning and, with good intentions, call in the “right” person for the job.

But God put you in front of the one who needs air. You see them with your eyes. You understand the need. No matter how prepared anyone else is, they don’t see it. You do. You’re the one God chose for the job.

We turn to an expert for help and while we try to explain or point the way, someone is drowning.

Jesus speaks theses words in Matthew. He paints the picture of the day we stand before God. He says the people will ask, When did we see you hungry and not feed you? Or When did we see you naked and not give you clothes?

Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’” Matthew 25:45 (ESV)

That day at the pool a stranger came to Micah’s rescue. This bystander saw Micah drowning and took action. I wish it had been me, but I thank God for that man who chose not to hesitate.

I urge you today, if you see someone drowning, jump into the water. You may not know what to do, but you can’t do anything until you get in the water. And something tells me, once you get there, you’ll know what to do.

Forgive me, Lord, for the times I sit back and look for someone else to help. Give me the courage to jump into the water when I see someone in need.