I’ll Show You by Sharron Cosby

I’ll Show You

by Sharron Cosby

“Jesus said to them, ‘When you pray, say this: ‘Father: May your holy name be honored; may your Kingdom come. Give us day by day the food we need. Forgive us our sins, for we forgive everyone who does us wrong. And do not bring hard testing’”

(Luke 11:2-4, GNT).

Blind from birth, musician Ken Medema has no problem finding his way around a keyboard. Yet he relies upon on others to show him the way over steps, onto stages, and into other unfamiliar spaces he must navigate in his career. Medema serves as a musical guest and speaker at conferences, where he mesmerizes audiences with his quick wit. He demonstrates an uncanny ability to compose on-the-spot, personalized songs while conveying spiritual messages and life lessons.

He once shared a poignant moment that he experienced after entertaining a youth group at their Valentine’s Day banquet. He had stationed himself close to the wall, where he listened to the music and gaiety of the teenagers. A young woman tapped him on the shoulder and asked him to dance.

“I don’t know how. I’ve never tried, so I’ll sit this one out,” he said.

She persisted. “Come on, I’ll show you.”

She led him to the dance floor, where he enjoyed an unforgettable new way of connecting with music. His account underscored the significance of this experience he’d nearly missed when he concluded, “I had the time of my life.”

When Christ’s disciples wanted to navigate the mysteries of prayer, they asked Jesus for instructions. The “light of the world” (John 8:12, NIV) offered to show them. He revealed a prayer style we now call “The Model Prayer” or “The Lord’s Prayer.” Jesus led them through these steps to experience intimate connection in the Father’s presence. We now enjoy this heavenly dance with the Lord in his throne room each day.

I experienced various “I’ll show you” environments when I joined critique groups, attended writers’ conferences, and entered contests. I formed relationships with authors, agents, and publishers who guided me through mysterious areas of the industry. Fellow word lovers lilted my soul as we danced together throughout this creative calling.

Perhaps you’re hesitant to step into unfamiliar spaces with seasoned writers. They already know the steps, the jargon, and the contacts. What could you possibly contribute to the literary world? Retreating to the walls of your writing nook feels much safer than venturing into the crowded world of authors.

A number of folks stand ready to lead you away from your position as an onlooker with a simple, “Come on, I’ll show you.” Will you accept the offer?

Our Father, we honor you for your willingness to show us how to live and love in your name. May we impart to others an “I’ll show you” spirit. Amen.

Sharron Cosby is a proud Alabama native transplanted to the sands of Florida. She is an award-winning author and loves speaking about her family’s journey through addiction and other hope-filled topics. Her book, Praying for Your Addicted Loved One: 90 in 90, is a devotional for families who love an addict. Connect with Sharron at www.SharronCosby.com

* A previous version of this devotion was published on Inkspirations Online on June 1, 2020.