Life as a journey

Christian Living Today

Do you view life as a journey?

Life is linear, moving from birth to death. Poet Linda Ellis wrote “The Dash” in 1996, reflecting on the time between birth and death, symbolized as the dash. How would you describe your dash?

I think the dash is a journey, like when Moses led crowds of enslaved people out of Egypt. They were thrilled to be free, yet soon became impatient, because of their journey. (Numbers 21:4b) When their journey demanded more than they expected, they became impatient. Their trek through the wilderness included different pathways, encounters and challenges, wearing their patience thin.

Their journey exposed them to dangerous situations, yet the God who led them out of slavery remained with them still. It included encounters where they could have been harmed, yet God intervened on their behalf. One example is found in Micah 6:5.

Our life journey places us in locations and with certain people. Think of encounters that appeared random, ones that seemed unique or especially timely.

Did you find sudden companionship or support? Was a comment made that uniquely spoke to you?

When we recall people who became special and how they impacted our life, these fond memories become part of our blessings.

I recall meeting a woman who lived far from me, a person I met only once. I noticed her Godly demeanor, and silently hoped to develop that in my life.

I think of another young woman, new to the Christian faith whose quiet subtle reaction captured my attention. God used her silent admission to remind me that not every adult knows simple childhood stories from the Bible.

Our encounters allow us to see God’s activity in our journey. Think of occasions when God intervened, times when you immediately knew if something hadn’t happened, you would be different today.

He knows our day’s journey and even uses delays to save us from dangers or roadblocks lurking ahead.

“The Lord is indeed going before you, He will be with you; He will not fail you or abandon you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.” (Deut. 31:8) We too must rely on God and His direction for our safety and provision.

Look for His hand along your way. I expect you’ll find it. Until next week, Anita

Onarecker, an Elgin resident, author of “Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge” and minister to women and adults, earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.