Monday, January 25, 2010

The Way

Every spring, my husband and our son go on a father/son campout. Both of the men in my life thoroughly enjoy this time alone together, as it allows them to test their "manly" skills in the wild. Perhaps inspired by Bear Gryllis, Marty decided last year to teach Jack some basic survival tips during their hike. Pointing out the moss on the bark of a nearby tree, Marty explained that if Jack were ever lost he would always know which way was north. It seems moss always grows on the south side of a trunk. Not some of the time. Not most of the time. Every time. Without exception, this basic rule of nature shows the way to even the most disoriented hiker. It is a widely known truth consistently held by those who love the outdoors.

God's truth is also constant and unchanging. The Bible is as relevant today as it was yesterday and will still command authority as we walk into tomorrow. We know this is true, for God promises that "all Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:6 NIV) Therefore, we have a way to the Father, thru Son, that remains constant throughout circumstance and time. We need not meander through life lost and confused. For Jesus is "the way, the truth, and the life." (John 14:6 NIV)

The world, however, rejects God's ways, choosing instead to accept opinionated falsehoods wrapped in tolerance. The ways of the world change continuously with political tides and populist views, making the way perilous with relativity. To be certain, there is a serious error in taking this approach towards God. For we, as a human race, now exist in the shadow of the Fall and our eyes, are blind to the world's fatal condition. If we foolishly allow the ways of the world to lead us through life, and fail to call on God for guidance, we will become lost and confused. Though the worldly path may appear to be the right one, we may take many steps before we admit we are surely lost. If we are to truly understand and follow the divine ways of God, we must have our spiritual sight restored through Christ. Walking in the light of our Savior illuminates truth and dispells the chaos of the fallen world.

While we wander lost in God's creation, The LORD points the way with truth. Indeed, God has given clear and explicit directions, but we must choose to follow the way. With certainty, God's moral compass powered by the Holy Spirit says, "This is the way; walk in it." (Isaiah 30:21 NIV) His people walk with assurance because "He will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just." (Genesis 14:9 NIV) The way is before you and the path is clear. Walk in it.


Heavenly Father,
You see your creation, groaning from the effects of sin in the world. Devastation. Disease. Greed. Violence. This is not how you made your creation to be. And we cry with the world as we witness the chaos around us. Life can be so troubling. We witness horrific scenes and it makes us feel lost and confused. In the midst of it all, we struggle to find our way. Sinful voices from the world point us in conflicting directions, but you have made it clear. Your word says that Jesus is the way., the truth and the life. In love, You offer eternal life to us by the gift of your Son Jesus Christ. There is nothing in this world that takes your place. Give us eyes to see you in the deception around us and fill us with your truth.
-Amen


Reflection: Do you know the way?

You can know salvation and walk in truth simply by saying the following prayer aloud...

"Lord, I know I am a sinner and sin separates me from your love. I understand I will never be good enough. Never be kind enough. I cannot earn my way to heaven because the wages of sin are death. But you sent your Son Jesus to die in my place. He took my punishment and left me free to live for you. I accept this gift. Please forgive me for my sins of yesterday, today, and tomorrow and set me on a path of truth rooted in your love for me alone. "

If you have just accepted Christ let me welcome you into the family. If you have questions regarding salvation, let me encourage you to seek answers in God's word alone. And, If I can be of assistance, please feel free to let me know. God Bless.

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