That’s all it takes
Just one step. Nothing more. Nothing less.
Yet I stand frozen
Unwilling to move.
He calls my name. Offers a hand but I still remain
At the bottom of this stairway to the unknown.

People come and go
Some taking that fateful step
Others turning the other way.
If I could only ask those who had the faith,
Was it worth it?
Is whatever awaits at the top worth all of this?
Should I just go back the way I came?

Even after my pain and suffering
He wants me with Him at the top.
Can’t he see me in my disbelief?
In my shame?
Surely I do not belong there.
Still he beckons me on with his simple request.
To take an impossible step.

The path is steep. Narrow.
Daunting in every way.
It’s impossible…isn’t it?
What if I stumble? Fall?
I couldn’t possibly get back up.
Maybe it’s best to stay where it’s safe
Secure and protected and predictable.

“Just one step.”
All He asks of me
Simple and complex at the same time.
A leap of faith, they call it.
Perhaps He isn’t crazy, but sincere.
I can do one step, can’t I?
So I take His hand in mine.

He doesn’t pull me forward
Doesn’t say a thing
Offers only a smile
The climb doesn’t seem so far anymore
Achievable. Freeing. Even close.
Faith is a difficult thing, but all it takes
Is a single step.

A step I’m finally willing to take.