Wizard of Oz fans—you know who you are—will recognize this memorable tune sung by Glinda, the Good Witch. With those words she encourages the Munchkins—more than “little people”—to come out of their hiding places so they can meet Dorothy.
Why memorable? The whole story turns on whether these good folks will put aside their fears and show themselves. If they had remained in hiding, the narrative would have remained dark and dangerous—Dorothy trudging along something other than a yellow-brick road—and positive outcomes in severe danger.
I’ve always been happy that the Munchkins accepted Dorothy’s invitation. Their courage—in welcoming a stranger who literally dropped in on them—is something I admire in anyone who weighs risks but still steps forward.
I’m thinking “come out” thoughts again. After four years of dealing with wicked witches, it’s starting to feel like life can return to normal. I’m gradually remembering what that felt like. I’m heartened by today’s stories of seemingly ordinary people who resume their lives as fully as possible.
With some hesitancy still in my spirit, I’m thinking that the invitation to come out of hiding is actually from God’s smiling face. “I’ve answered your prayers now. It’s safe again. You can put your lives back into forward gear. What you hoped for is possible. I love you still.” Those warm words of the Spirit encourage me to think about possibilities, not perfidies. About purposes and passions. About good people with whom to work towards God’s will.
It’s not yet Spring, but in my soul I feel ready to crawl out of my cave and come out once again into the sun of relationships. Into the work of God’s own Son! I hope you’re starting to feel the same way.
Wherever you are…
