The Pilgrim Church

   As we journey through this life we are engaged in a pilgrimage.  We seek to leave the world of sin and evil and travel to the perfect one God intended for us from the beginning.

   To make this trip I think it’s helpful to understand not only where we are going but from where we have come.  If we fully realize what we are leaving behind it makes the hardships and trials of our pilgrimage easier to bear.  Our crosses may seem lighter knowing that we will be able to lay them at the feet of our Lord and spend eternity in peace with Him.

   Let’s leave behind our anger on our way to peace.  We jump to conclusions, make assumptions and let our feelings affect our reactions.  A righteous anger over the sinfulness of this world is something that we should perhaps have, but that anger should never be directed at our friends and neighbors or even our enemies.  If we must have anger let it be directed at the cause of anger, Satan.

   Let’s begin to see everyone as God’s children.  Replace our biases with recognition that God is creator of all.  Our differences are not relevant.  We were all created in God's image; that is all that matters. 

   Practice virtue and renounce pride.  When we feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the sick and those in prison we are responding to God’s call.  Yet even virtues such as these can become sinful when we are full of pride.  Some look for the pat on the back and recognition for the good they do when the glory belongs to God.  For without Him we can do nothing.  “Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name give glory because of your faithfulness and love.” (Ps. 115: 1)

   Finally, let’s give ourselves completely to God on this journey.  Trust in the Him and empty these earthy vessels of all but love for God and our neighbor.  Ask the Lord to make us holy.  We aren’t capable of holiness, but God can make us holy.  With an open heart and confidence in all that He can do, let’s give Him permission to do whatever is needed to increase our holiness.

   Our journey may be difficult at times; we may even be tempted to give up on it when it gets too hard.  This is Satan’s effort to steal us from the God who loves us.  Rebuke him, call on angelic armies to help fight him.  Look to God and follow Him on this pilgrimage until we reach our heavenly home.