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There are some things that stay with us forever—favorite songs, familiar smells, old TV shows. If you’re a Millennial, chances are “Blue’s Clues” is one of those things. A little green-striped shirt, a thinking chair, and that catchy mail time song—these details are etched into the minds of many of us who grew up in the ‘90s. And while the show may have been aimed at kids, it taught us more than just how to find clues or solve puzzles. It showed us what it looks like to create space for curiosity, imagination, and connection.

Steve Burns, the original host of “Blue’s Clues,” left the show over 20 years ago, but his recent social media presence has captured our attention once again, and for good reason. Take a look at this Instagram video, where Steve talks to the audience—many of whom are now adults—about the importance of holding space for themselves and each other. His genuine, heartfelt words feel like a comforting letter from an old friend, reminding us that we are seen, valued, and capable. Steve holds space for us, just like he did when we were kids, but now in a way that speaks to our adult lives. And in doing so, he models something beautiful and essential for all of us.

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Holding Space: The Way of Jesus

So, what does it mean to hold space for someone? In Steve’s case, it means showing up with empathy and authenticity, offering a listening ear, and making people feel safe to share their stories and struggles. He doesn’t have all the answers; he doesn’t try to fix everything. Instead, he offers his presence, his compassion, and his understanding.

This concept of holding space aligns closely with the way of Jesus. Jesus was a master at holding space for others. He welcomed the outcast (Lk. 19:1-10), listened to the unheard (Mk. 10:46-52), and sat with those who were struggling (Lk. 7:36-50). He didn’t rush people to “get over” their grief or push them to “fix” themselves. He didn't minimize their trauma for the sake of keeping the peace. He created room for them to be exactly who they were, in all their pain, joy, confusion, and complexity. Think of the woman at the well, the tax collector in the tree, or the crowds who gathered around Him—they were all given the gift of Jesus’ presence. He saw them, heard them, and loved them, right where they were.

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Blues Clues and the Call to Compassion

In an age where social media often amplifies our anxieties and differences, Steve’s simple, unassuming videos are a breath of fresh air. He doesn’t preach or pontificate; he simply invites us to take a breath, to pause, to know that it’s okay not to have it all figured out. This invitation is also a calling for us, especially those of us who follow Jesus, to be more like Jesus in how we show up for each other.

The way of Jesus calls us to hold space for others—to make room in our lives for their stories, their experiences, and their pain. It asks us to listen deeply, to offer kindness without strings attached, and to be willing to sit in the discomfort of not having all the answers. It’s about creating safe places where people can be themselves, just as they are, and feel God’s love through our presence.

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Nostalgia and Moving Forward

There’s something powerful in nostalgia, something that connects us to our past while also anchoring us in the present. And perhaps, as we remember those simple moments from childhood, like sitting down in our imaginary thinking chair to solve a puzzle with Steve, we can remember the power of presence—the power of just being there for someone.

So, whether it’s through a heartfelt video, a compassionate conversation, or an invitation to reconnect, let’s embrace the call to hold space for each other. Let’s show up with empathy and love, knowing that sometimes, just like Steve, the most profound thing we can do is remind someone:

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“I see you. You matter. And we’re in this together.” -Steve Burns

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But here's a question for us to consider: When was the last time you genuinely held space for someone—truly listened, without judgment or the need to offer a solution—and allowed them to simply be? What would it look like if we made this a daily practice, not just with those closest to us, but with everyone we encounter?

After all, isn’t that what Jesus would do? Isn’t that the kind of community we all crave? A place where we’re known, loved, and held—right where we are.

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“Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest." -Jesus

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So, the next time you hear that familiar mail time song in your head, remember: there’s a space to hold, a person to love, and a way of Jesus to live out. And maybe, just maybe, we can all be a little more like Steve… and a lot more like Jesus.

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