The Journey Home

   When we think of a long journey we normally think of airplane schedules and traveling at high speed far above the earth.  We get where we are going much quicker that way but there are trade-offs involved.  The view from an airplane window at thirty-thousand feet can be incredible but we lose many of the small details of the world we are flying over.  Those details are an important part of the journey.

   I think of the hardships experienced by early explorers on their trek into the unknown.  By sea on sailing vessels or on land by covered wagon many challenges were faced each day.  Storms at sea and on land could delay or even destroy the dream of seeking new places and new lives.  Ships sank in the rough waters, killing all on board.  Blizzards or dust storms took the lives of entire wagon trains in the westward movement in this country.  In many cases lives were lost, dreams never fulfilled.

   Our journey is a spiritual one that can’t be taken via airplanes, trains or even cars.  We must face the daily challenges within ourselves; challenges that can’t be overcome by any means other than self-awareness, prayer and faith in our Lord.  Those who explored new lands and new places faced constant struggle and dangers.  The trials we may face on our way to God are no less real and, at times, no less dangerous.

   When we embark on our journey to God we begin a life-long effort to reach our destination.  We can’t stop along the way and say we’ve gone far enough; we must continue if we are to achieve our goal.  There are joys and dangers in any worthwhile journey.  Our trip will be beautiful and fulfilling as well as difficult at times.  Early explorers sought a better life and risked all to find it.  We seek a heavenly home and risk all to get there.

Father we seek our home with You.

Watch over us on our travels.

Show us the way.

Lead us home.

Amen