Introduction – Meeting Dr. Claudia May
As part of our Read and Renew Summer Program, this week we’re highlighting Dr. Claudia May’s book, When I Fly With Papa. Dr. May is an award-winning author, spiritual director, and professor who helps people experience God’s kindness in their everyday lives. Her book invites families to rest in God’s love and presence. Through gentle storytelling and imagination, she reminds adults and children alike that God is near and tender, even when life feels heavy.
“The very aspects of our humanity that God created—our tears, our anger, our delight—show us a God who understands us and longs to be invited into even our messy emotions.” – Dr. Claudia May
When Caring for Others Feels Hard
Parenting has a way of stirring up deep places in us. Sometimes it shows up as irritation when our kids push limits. Other times it’s the quiet exhaustion of feeling unseen. We might wonder, “Why does this feel so hard?”
Our brains hold on to old hurts, and stressful parenting moments can bring them to the surface. These reactions often come from patterns formed long before we became parents ourselves. Yet Psalm 34:18 whispers a beautiful truth: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” God leans in when we feel overwhelmed. He meets us there with compassion and healing.
“Many people feel they have to act perfect for God, like they need to show their best side. But God doesn’t want a polished version of you. He welcomes all of you—even the parts you try to hide.” – Dr. Claudia May
God’s Nearness in Our Parenting Struggles
Dr. May invites us to see God as a safe and loving Father. He isn’t distant when we fail. He gently calls us closer, offering rest for our weary hearts. As we begin to trust His presence in our struggles, we find strength to offer that same gentleness to those around us. What if our parenting became less about fixing and more about being present⸺noticing what God is up to as He is right there with us?
This shift can feel small, but it changes the atmosphere in our homes. Instead of striving to control every outcome, we can pause and let God’s peace settle over us. Even one deep breath and a whispered prayer can open a window to His grace.
The Brain Science of Connection and Calm
Pausing in hard moments can do more than we expect. A slow breath or a quiet prayer helps calm our brains, moving us out of “fight or flight” and into a place where connection is possible. This moment of stillness helps us respond with kindness rather than react out of fear or frustration.
When we practice this pause regularly, it begins to reshape how our brains respond. Dr. May’s book shows how imagination and story can guide families into new patterns of peace and trust. As we read and reflect together, we’re not just teaching our children—we’re rewiring our own hearts and minds toward love.
Simple Practices to Welcome God's Presence
- Breath Prayers: Whisper simple prayers like “Jesus, be near” or “Lord, give me Your peace” during stressful times. These prayers help center our hearts and remind us we’re not alone.
- Reflective Journaling: Write honestly to God about your hard moments. Ask Him where He is in your family’s story and listen for His gentle response.
- Read Together: Spend time with your children reading books like When I Fly With Papa. Let these moments open a sacred space where God’s love can be felt in your home.
- Creative Worship: Encourage singing, dancing, or drawing as ways to worship. Join in—even if it feels silly. God loves when we are real with Him.
Reflection Questions
- When do I feel most overwhelmed in caring for others?
- How might God be inviting me to pause in those moments?
- What would it mean to let Him shape our family’s story together?
A Sacred Invitation to Healing
Whether you are guiding little ones, caring for aging parents, or supporting someone in need, God walks with you. Dr. May’s gentle words remind us that every moment—no matter how small—can become a sacred place where healing begins. As we invite Him in, we discover that even our hardest days can be touched by His peace.
Take a moment today to ask: “Jesus, where are You with me?” Let His love meet you right where you are. To explore more, pick up Dr. Claudia May’s When I Fly With Papa and discover simple ways to bring God’s presence into your family life.
A Conversation with Dr. Claudia May
I was fortunate to sit down with Dr. Claudia May and hear her heart behind When I Fly With Papa. Her contagious joy about expressing God’s love shines through every word. Here’s a glimpse of our conversation:
Q: What inspired you to write When I Fly With Papa?
“I met so many people who apologized for crying or feeling angry. I’d ask them, ‘Why are you saying sorry for feeling something God made you to feel?’ Sadly, many people even try to hide their emotions from God. But I believe God wants us to bring all of ourselves to Him—even our tears, our anger, our joy.”
Q: How can families grow closer to God together?
“Start small. Take a psalm like Psalm 23 and invite God into it. Picture lying down in green grass with Him. Take a deep breath and imagine Him sitting with you. If your child sings or dances for God, join them. God isn’t asking for perfect songs or fancy prayers. He delights in our simple, honest offerings.”
Q: What would you say to people who feel stuck in their role of care?
“You don’t have to fix everything. Just being there is enough. Read one page of the book and let it sink in. Stroke a child's cheek when God hugs Winnie. Dance, sing, or cry—these small, simple acts can become holy moments where God’s love meets you and those you care for.”