Recently I took out an A5 sheet of lined paper and started writing.
What I wrote on it was an outline of the journey I have taken in life thus far. It was just broad-strokes from season to season. One particular aspect of that which proved to be very interesting was looking at the setbacks. Considering those who helped me get over those setback and work through them. It’s to the point now that I have a better appreciation of why those things needed to happen.
At some point after that, there was a group of us that gathered together. The facilitator of the group got us to look at places where we’ve been and places where we would like to go. As we conversed on these matters it was the platform for the facilitator to encourage us to consider the journeys we see in life, whether geographical or metaphorical. That A5 sheet of paper may not have been to hand, but the thoughts and the words flowed from my heart as we shared.
The conversation was really touching in hearing other people open their lives about things they have learned from their journeys. Values and insights that really helped them in actually getting to the place they are. As we reflected on where we are, there was also something about recognising where we’re going.
A number of us realise we are not at the destination yet and we have a desire to reach there. We may not have the full directions that will take us all the way there, but going on the journey together is definitely one of the key points of the exercise. Acknowledging that the journey was never designed to be a solo one. Being grateful for the travel companions and encouraging each other to take another step in the journey.
Among the travel companions, it’s particularly reassuring to know that God walks beside us. A constant companion and friend, should we acknowledge Him, even when it doesn’t feel like He’s there.
Not only is He here with us on the journey, He’s also the way. Following Him as well as walking beside Him can help us understand how to negotiate various areas on the journey.
Not only is He here with us and the way, but He is the destination and goal that we long for. He is the treasure we seek. He is reason for the journey and as we travel from the old to the new, He makes the way clear for us to see and as we travel so we appreciate the journey and so we long for the destination all the more.
Looking at that A5 sheet of paper among other things told me that the journey is not to here, but the journey is to there …
(Photo by David Marcu on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 