The Way Through

“Your road led through the sea, your pathway through the mighty waters--a pathway no one knew was there!” (Psalm 77:19 NLT)

When I was four years old, I almost drowned. I still remember the bubbles in the water as my body sank slowly in the river. I don’t remember the part where my uncle jumped in and rescued me. Even now, the sensation of drowning feels familiar: waves of panic, a deluge of powerlessness, and finally...surrender. 

My life is pockmarked with such moments of helplessness.  Traumatic experiences leave a huge impression on me, while the subsequent recovery fades from my memory.  I have recurrent nightmares about being in car crashes, losing loved ones, and falling down deep, dark pits. I am sure I have pleasant dreams, too, but I just don’t recall them in the mornings.  This colors my self-narrative.

Some nights, I lie awake imagining all the things that could go wrong in the future. It feels like I am drowning once again. I have learned to intentionally remind myself of the whole story: I have been here before. When the mighty waters engulfed me, when I could not see a way out, God saved me. His road led through the sea--a pathway no one knew was there! This same Savior is still with me. Even when I am powerless, there is no need to panic. God is always near. His ways of rescue might not be what I expect. His timing may seem slow to me. His plans may not align with mine. Yet, God is always there to sustain and strengthen me.  

“When you face stormy seas I will be there with you with endurance and calm; you will not be engulfed in raging rivers. If it seems like you’re walking through fire with flames licking at your limbs, keep going; you won’t be burned.” (Isaiah 43:2 VOICE)

Excess Wealth

“Food and clothing is enough to make us content. But those who crave the wealth of this world slip into spiritual snares. They become trapped by the troubles that come through their foolish and harmful desires, driven by greed and drowning in their own sinful pleasures. And they take others down with them into their corruption and eventual destruction.” (1 Timothy 6:8-9 TPT)

The water fountains at the Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas attract crowds of tourists. This spectacle of water, lights, and music can be fun to watch--if you have never seen it before. For those who live and work in the area, it is just another artificial display. Vegas is built in a desert area. You wouldn’t guess that there is a high need for water by looking at the various tourist traps on the strip. 

Ostentatious displays of wealth are as meaningless as artificial fountains in the desert. A certain amount of money is necessary to provide the basics. After a point, more stuff or distractions will not significantly improve the quality of your life. It might impress a few gawkers, but it’s just a matter of time before they move on to something flashier. 

Why do we strive to amass more wealth than necessary? Is it an insecurity that we may run out of resources in the future? Or is it so that others will admire and envy us? Either way, societal preoccupation with accumulation and conspicuous consumption leads to a general indifference to the poor in our communities. While we look up to those who have more than enough, we fail to notice the ones who have so very little. We influence those around us to do the same. Driven by greed and drowning in meaningless pleasures, we drag our children, relatives, friends, coworkers, and neighbors down with us. As we wallow in foolishness, we fail to recognize how we reinforce inequity and add fuel to the destruction of humanity.

 

Celebrating Progress

“I admit that I haven’t yet acquired the absolute fullness that I’m pursuing, but I run with passion into his abundance so that I may reach the purpose for which Christ Jesus laid hold of me to make me his own.” (Philippians 3:12 TPT)

A marathon is 26.2 miles. Only 0.5% of the U.S. population has ever completed a marathon. However, endurance runners tend to socialize with other runners since it is such a time-consuming pursuit. Thus, a large percentage of my friends are marathoners.  Many of us started off unable to run even one mile continuously. Yet, we train our bodies and minds incrementally, mile by mile, over months and years. One would assume that long-distance runners are used to celebrating their progress, but this is not the case. We tend to focus on what is left to be done instead of what we have already accomplished. At mile 20, no runner ever thinks: “Wow, look how far I’ve come.” Instead, the mental chatter goes more like this: “Another 10km to the finish line. Why does my body hurt so much? I feel like such a weakling. I should have trained better, fueled better. I have to pick up the pace. What if I don’t cross the finish line in a reasonable time? I would be a failure!”

Perhaps you are not an endurance runner and all of this seems bizarre. However, you may go through similar self-critical assessments in other areas of life. Think about the issues you have been actively working to improve: relationships, faith, personal habits, projects, work, finances, character flaws, etc. Do you routinely celebrate how far you have come? Or, do you beat yourself up because you have so far to go, or you are not where you thought you would be at this stage of life? The joy of progress can be snuffed out by the pressure of perfection. When we fixate on the finish, we forget where we started. None of us will be able to acquire the absolute fullness of God’s purpose for us during this lifetime. Yet, we press on. It is good to focus on the ultimate pursuit, but remember to celebrate the progress too. 

Committed Relationships

‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ (Mark 12:31 MSG)

A committed relationship implies dedication, sacrifice, honesty, trust, faithfulness, and love. A married couple pledges to be devoted to each other, to protect and care for each other, and to never give up.  Although the term is used mostly to delineate serious romantic relationships, commitment can extend to many other types of bonds as well. 

It is difficult to love others until you learn to love yourself. Thus, a committed relationship with yourself is essential. What does this look like? You pledge to show up, speak up, and care for your body, mind, and soul. You are honest about your needs and motives. You trust your instincts and defend against abuse. You dedicate time, energy, and other resources toward nurturing your growth. You do not neglect or give up on yourself. This is not a license to be self-indulgent or to pursue pleasure. In fact, it is the opposite. You do not spoil what you love; you develop it to its full potential. 

When you decide to be in a committed relationship with yourself, you acknowledge that you are worthy of love. When you consistently show up for yourself, it increases your self-credibility. You believe in yourself, respect yourself, and trust yourself. From this foundation, you are able to extend love, honor, and commitment to others. 

Justifying Superiority

“There are neither Jews nor Greeks, slaves nor free people, males nor females. You are all the same in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28 GWT)

The use of Biblical interpretations to justify the superiority of certain groups and the oppression of other groups is nothing new. The Bible describes the maltreatment of Moabites, Samaritans, gentiles, women, slaves, etc. These passages about ancient cultures have been used to continue practices of discrimination against minorites and those with limited power. 

 

Christ is the best role model for Christians to follow. Look at how Jesus treated those who were devalued by society--fishermen, Samaritans, women, children, lepers, people with disabilities, the poor. He taught us to love others like we love ourselves. Christ did not discriminate between Jews and Greeks, slaves and free people, males and females. In His eyes we are all the same, all worthy of love and dignity. The bulk of the Bible teaches inclusivity, fairness, compassion, and advocacy. Instead of misappropriating a few verses to justify our delusions of superiority, let us propagate the message of love and equality and honor God by the way we see and treat others. 

 

“Speak up for the people who have no voice,

    for the rights of all the misfits.

Speak out for justice!

    Stand up for the poor and destitute!” (Proverbs 31:8-9 MSG)

The Power of Aging

 “Wisdom belongs to the aged, and understanding to the old.” (Job 12:12 NLT)

 

Beth Moore, a popular author and speaker, has been a huge influence on many women of my generation. Her Bible study guides and videos have been regularly used by church groups of various denominations. Like many other female Christian speakers, Beth always toed a fine line between challenging people to grow spiritually while conforming to her Southern Baptist roots. Now in her sixties, Beth has been speaking up for women who have been abused by men. Her advocacy has been costly. Her criticism of leaders has resulted in fierce pushback from the religious establishment. I wonder why she spoke up now after decades of going along to get along?

 

While youth comes with attention and passion, age brings wisdom and understanding. As an older woman, I have noticed a certain freedom that I did not possess a few decades ago. I call it the power of being unbothered. I am less concerned about the approval of others. As I grow older, I become less visible to the general public; others care less about what I think. This new-found power gives me opportunities that I did not have previously. 

 

I admire Beth Moore’s courage. She is using the power of aging in a wonderful way to advocate for others. How can I follow her example? Can I learn to put myself ‘out there’ to protect and defend those who are powerless?  Am I willing to stand up and speak up for those who are vulnerable, even if this might turn some people off, even if this means I face ridicule and disgust from the majority? How am I going to use my freedom to make a positive difference? 

Separating the Chaff

 

“He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat.” (Matthew 3:12 NLT)

 

When I was a young girl in India, I used to watch my grandma process the grain after harvest. She used a winnowing tray to separate the chaff from the grain. Her technique seemed mysterious to me. First, she spread out the mix of unprocessed grain. With a flick of her wrists, she would shake the winnowing tray, throw the grain up in the air, pull back her arms a smidge, and catch whatever fell back. Her movements were rhythmic, repetitive, and intentional. The heavier grain would land back on the tray quickly. The lighter chaff floated back a second later, but she would have pulled back the winnowing tray by then. The result was that the chaff ended up on the floor while the good grain remained in the tray. My grandma spent time and energy processing the good from the worthless. After all this work, I can’t imagine she would ever sweep up the chaff and mix it back up with the good grain!

 

For decades, my life was a mix of substantive essentials and worthless fillers. Separating the chaff from the grain seemed like too much effort; plus, the fillers gave off the illusion of a bigger lifestyle. In recent years, I have realized the harm in continuing this delusion. Thus, now I process my thoughts carefully. I sift through my choices, motivations, actions, attitudes, and influences intentionally. I spread them out, shake them, turn them over, and retrieve the heftier essentials. What is meaningful? Why is it valuable? What is superficial? What void am I attempting to fill with husks?  Every time I pull back, some of the frivolous dust falls away. I repeat the winnowing continually. This takes time and energy. I hope to never go back to mixing up the chaff and the grain. 

Receptive to Lies

“His words were smoother than butter, and softer than olive oil.

But hatred filled his heart, and he was ready to attack  with a sword. (Psalm 55:21 CEV) 

 

On the margins of my old Bible, I have the name of an acquaintance written down next to the above verse. My husband and I have known this person for several decades. For the sake of privacy, I will refer to him as Conman.

 

Conman presents himself as wealthy, sophisticated, successful, knowledgeable, spendy, confident, and fun to be around. He is a smooth talker. He seems to know when and how to apply flattery and when to hold back. He readily laughs at all your jokes. He lies about his age, his past, his assets, his intentions, his relationships--and even though we know the truth, we don’t call him out on these falsehoods. They seem like harmless puffery. We overlook his unscrupulous business practices and the way he takes advantage of everyone else. We wonder why people fall for Conman’s duplicity. Can they not see the incongruencies? 

 

A person who is parched from thirst will accept even the most brackish water. If their skin is dry and cracked, they will take any grease they can find. Conman has figured this out. He peddles his snake oil to everyone; those who are desperate are receptive to his lies. By associating with him, we lend him our credibility. This begs the question: why do we make space for Conman in our lives?  We are aware that his slick words are as rancid as old bacon grease. We know that deceit fills his heart, and he would swindle us if given the chance. What void is he filling for us that we are willing to overlook his dishonesty?

Meditation and Contemplation

 

 “I will meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways.” (Psalm 119:15 NKJV)

 

I have discovered the secret to a great broccoli salad is to let it marinate for several hours. First, I pull apart the florets into small, bite-sized pieces. Then, I coat it with vinegar, mayonnaise, and spices. Like other cruciferous vegetables, broccoli is not easily digestible.  The fibrous outer layer needs time to break down and soften up in an acidic environment. It is best not  to rush the process. This salad is much more enjoyable if you allow it time to tenderize and absorb the flavors.

 

Similarly, I have discovered the secret to understanding God’s precepts is to meditate upon it for some time. Truth can be difficult to understand and digest. The fibrous, substantive tissue requires pondering.  It is best not to rush the process. A cursory reading is insufficient. I pull apart each concept into bite-sized pieces. I ask God to teach me what I need to learn at each phase in my life. As I contemplate, the Word becomes tender and my heart becomes receptive.  I write down any insights and applications that are revealed to me.  I leisurely immerse myself in God’s presence. I sit and soak until I’ve absorbed all the goodness. 

 

A Pencil in God's Hands

“He will be an implement for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” (2 Timothy 2:21 NASB)

 

Decades ago, I read that Mother Teresa said she was like a pencil in God’s hands. This image resonated with me. I imagined myself as a pencil too, being used by God to write. Yet, I didn’t want to be an ordinary pencil; I wanted to be a special, sparkly one. It did not occur to me until recently that the outside of a pencil merely exists to provide a protective casing for the core. The graphite in the middle is what is significant. A pencil where the graphite has fallen out and the core is empty is completely worthless. When the tip of a pencil is worn down, it is sharpened so that more of the graphite can be exposed. The colorful outer layer and the wooden middle layer is thrown out with the shavings. A good pencil must be sharp enough to write legibly; that’s it. 

 

I no longer crave to be a sparkly pencil, just a useful one. Now that I am older, I realize how little externals matter. It is the substance of my core character that is significant. I am called to be an implement of honor and sanctity. In order to be useful and prepared for every good work, I must yield to the pain of sharpening. Most of all, I need to fit comfortably in God’s hands and allow Him to use me. 

Speak in My Name

“He said to me, ‘Speak in My name over these bones. Say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the Word of the Lord.’ This is what the Lord God says to these bones: ‘I will make breath come into you, and you will come to life.’” (Ezekiel 37:4-5 NLV) 

 

One of our old cars rarely gets used, especially during winter months. When I try to start it, the battery is often drained. I have to use jumper cables to revive the car battery with power from a portable charger. This charger is usually plugged into an electrical outlet in the garage. 

 

When I encounter a person who seems drained--spiritually and emotionally--I want to help. I often pray for them, but I don’t see any immediate results. Like a portable charger that lacks the power to jumpstart a dead car battery, I feel powerless and depleted.  

 

When I read the account of Ezekiel and the dry bones, several thoughts come to mind. 

 

-God instructed Ezekiel: “Speak in My Name over these bones.” 

-Ezekiel speaks on God’s behalf. The power source is God. Ezekiel is simply a spokesperson. 

-Ezekiel is speaking over inanimate objects. The dry bones are unable to hear or participate in their revival. 

 

What can I learn from Ezekiel? 

 

Before I attempt to rejuvenate a person who is drained, I need to be continuously plugged in to a power greater than my own reserves. I do not have the capacity to revive anything, but I have the privilege to speak in God’s Name. The Spirit of God can flow through me to reawaken the dormant spirit in others. Their participation is not necessary, but I have to remain willing and submitted. I cannot be discouraged when things seem hopeless. I must persevere in the faith that nothing is impossible with God. 

 

Lord, teach me to speak life into those who are dispirited. Remind me to stay connected to You continuously.  Enable me to yield to Your will. Fill me with boldness and perseverance. Allow your energy to flow through me to those in need. 

 

Pause in His Presence

“Be still upon your bed and search your heart before him. Pause in his presence. Bring to Yahweh the sacrifice of righteousness and put your trust in him.” (Psalm 4:4-5 TPT)

When I can’t sleep at night, I sing in my head. Often bits and pieces of one song get stuck in my mind. Last night, it was “Oceans” by Hillsong. Anyone who has heard it knows that the lyrics, melody, and arrangement of the song are beautiful. But my favorite part is the long pause before the bridge. The vocals stop. The instruments go silent. For several moments, everyone waits in the presence of God. It is a time to reflect on what has been sung thus far. It builds anticipation for what is coming next:

“Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders, 

let me walk upon the waters, wherever You would call me. 

Take me deeper than my feet would ever wander, 

that my faith would be made stronger, in the presence of my Savior.” (lyrics from “Oceans” by Hillsong)

 

As you spend time communing with God, remember to take moments of complete silence. Be still. Search your heart before him. Take time to reflect. Wait in quiet anticipation for what God is about to bring into your mind next. Remain trusting. Let your prayers be guided by the Spirit.  Pause in His presence. Observe as mental barriers get removed. Allow God to take you deeper than you can go on your own. Feel your faith getting stronger in the presence of the Savior.

Peering Through the Mist

“The path we walk is charted by faith, not by what we see with our eyes.” (2 Corinthians 5:7 VOICE)

The fog was thick that morning as I ran through the familiar loop around my neighborhood. I could only make out the outlines of the trees and houses through the mist.  I was untroubled by the lack of clarity. Over the years, I had tread this path thousands of times. My feet knew where to step even though my eyes didn’t. I moved forward without hesitation. In times of uncertainty, familiarity can be reassuring. 

There are times in life where I can’t see things clearly. I peer through the mist, wanting to know what is ahead. As I approach the cusp of breaking through, a vague uneasiness holds me back. Can I trust a God that I cannot see? 

A flash of recognition comes over me. The wilderness is not new to me. I have been on this path thousands of times. I have experienced God’s presence. In Him, I live and move and have my being. My spirit know even though my eyes can’t see. My faith is bolstered by familiarity. My anxiety recedes as I move forward in trust.  

“We don’t yet see things clearly. We’re squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won’t be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We’ll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!” (1 Corinthians 13:12 MSG)

The Weight of Wisdom

“Wisdom is so priceless that it exceeds the value of any jewel. Nothing you could wish for can equal her.” (Proverbs 8:11 TPT)

When packing books, I always use small, sturdy boxes. I write the word ‘heavy’ in large letters on the top. I don’t want anyone to be surprised by the weight when they pick up these boxes. 

Small packages can sometimes be startlingly weighty. 

I have a friend who casually dumps little boxes of wisdom that way a ton. She drops these nuggets without preamble.  I’m usually unprepared to handle such weight without warning. If I’m distracted, I can miss these treasures that are buried in random conversations. I have learned to pay attention. 

Wisdom is priceless like a jewel. It can be hefty and unwieldy. If you need assistance, ask for help. Handle it with care. It often comes in unexpected packages with random artifacts. Take time to unpack it. Sort, sift, and disentangle that which is valuable. Recognize its worth.

“Those who find true wisdom obtain the tools for understanding, the proper way to live,  for they will have a fountain of blessing pouring into their lives. To gain the riches of wisdom is far greater than gaining the wealth of the world.” (Proverbs 3:13 TPT)

Giving Away Treasure

"Then you will be pleased with sacrifices offered in the right spirit." (Psalm 51:19 NLT)

I routinely clean out my closet in order to make space for new stuff.  This year, as I sifted through my possessions, I realized something disturbing. My screening process for donations has been: Will I need/want/use this? Does it have sentimental value? Does it bring joy to me? Do I have the space to store it? I rarely gave up anything I valued. It was not sacrificial. My main motives were to declutter and bring order to my home. 

I recognized that I had not been giving in the right spirit. 

Repentance involves turning around when we realize we are on the wrong track. 

I decided to use a different criterion for my donations: Could this item benefit or bring joy to someone else? 

With this new mindset, I approached my closet. I scanned my clothes, shoes, and purses as usual. I picked out several nice things. It didn’t hurt too much. Then, suddenly, my eyes fell on my jewelry box. I have always had an obsession for dangly earrings. I treasured my huge collection of beautiful costume jewelry from all over the world. Many were given to me as gifts. They took up so little space that I have never seen any reason to give them away. Besides, they were mine. Nobody would appreciate them the way I did. I recognized my possessiveness. I knew in my heart that the jewelry needed to be released for my own emancipation. It would certainly bring joy to someone else. As I packed up my earrings, I realized how much harder it was to detach from all that I liked and enjoyed. My life was still centered on my wishes and desires.  I may have made a slight turn, but the old ways still tugged at me. I still had a long way to go.

Sacred Gratitude

“Let the giving of thanks be your sacrifice to God, and give the Almighty all that you promised.” (Psalm 50:14 GNT)

Keeping a gratitude journal reminds me to appreciate the positives in my life. It is a practice that puts me in a better mood. When I’m feeling sorry for myself, I try to quickly think of a few things for which I am thankful. I use this form of ‘generic’ gratitude as a coping mechanism to get me out of the dumps. 

Can gratitude have a sacred purpose?  

While generic gratitude makes us appreciate all that we have, sacred gratitude directs our attention to the Giver of everything. We suddenly find ourselves immersed in a hushed reverence. There is a shift in perspective. We are now able to offer both joys and sufferings to the Lord. Thankfulness becomes a vessel to honor and worship God.

“I’ll worship you passionately and bring to you my sacrifice of praise, drenched with thanksgiving!” (Psalm 116:17 TPT)  

Multiplying Blessings

“I am going to put a special blessing on you and cause your reputation to grow so that you will become a blessing and example to others.” (Genesis 12:2 VOICE)

On a Scrabble game board, there are some squares that multiply the value of your tiles. A good player tries to place his tiles in locations that will yield maximum points. He takes an inventory of the tiles in front of him, and then checks the board to see how he can make the greatest impact with what he has in hand.  Even if he has high value tiles that align to make long words, he needs to be strategic about using the multiplier spaces to win the game. 

The lessons of Scrabble can be beneficial in many areas of daily living. We all have a set of talents and blessings in each season of growth. It is up to us to use what we have been given for the greatest impact. We can take our gifts and multiply them to spread blessings. 

Let’s say someone teaches you how to make bread. Don’t just thank them right after and forget about them. Honor them every time you make bread. That multiplies the blessing.  Make and give away loaves to all who are hungry. Now, you’ve multiplied it further. Teach others to make bread. The impact becomes exponential. 

If you forgo a trip, you might save money and reduce environmental damage. That’s a multiplier. If you donate money to a charity, maybe they will mail you a tote bag for your contribution--not really a multiplier. But if you take the time to research charities and ensure that most of the proceeds go to programs and services--that’s a multiplier. If you recycle a plastic container, that is beneficial. If you can repurpose the container to grow plants, that’s a multiplier. 

Take inventory of all that you have been given. Take every opportunity to multiply and spread goodness. Become a blessing and example to others.

Inner Pilgrimage

“For even though our outer person gradually wears out, our inner being is renewed every single day.” (2 Corinthians 4:16 TPT)

The Camino de Santiago is a network of trails ending at the tomb of St. James in Compostela, Spain. Pilgrims have been walking this famous route for centuries. It takes over a month to complete the 500-mile journey on foot. Day after day, hikers trudge through muddy trails and hills carrying large backpacks with all their essentials. They stop at local churches, resupply rations at towns along the way, and sleep in cramped hostels. I have been doing a virtual version of this trail. Every day I log the miles I do on a website which shows my progress on a map. I get to see photographs of scenic places along each stage. It doesn’t match the physical experience of hiking and sleeping in an unfamiliar country, but it does have its own benefits. I can sleep in my own bed every night, and I don’t have to carry a backpack all day. 

The word ‘virtual’ implies something that is not legitimate. We equate things that are physical and tangible with reality. Thus, external, visual experiences are oftentimes assigned value over interior journeys. As we move through each day--caring, working, serving, listening, connecting--an inner pilgrimage is taking place. These local paths allow us to expand our consciousness, seek meaning, and find purpose. There is much to be discovered in the unknown recesses of our soul. The sacred journey into the depths of our being can be transformative and invaluable.

Plogging

“Take advantage of every opportunity to be a blessing to others.” (Galatians 6:10 TPT)

A few years ago, a new fitness craze called ‘plogging’ emerged in Sweden. This exercise trend combines jogging with picking up litter. Runners plan ahead before plogging. They put on latex gloves and carry trash bags with them. They intentionally scan the streets for trash. Before I heard of this practice, I would notice trash only if it was in my way. Since I wasn’t prepared with a bag, I would pick up just one or two pieces of litter during the last part of my run. These days, I set aside time for weekly plogging. With gloves and trash bags, I scan the streets and ditches while I jog. I’ve learned a few things during these expeditions. You can either run fast, or you can pick up trash--not both. Plogging involves a lot of stopping and stooping. Carrying trash bags decreases running economy, but having a bag increases cleaning efficiency. It is surprising how much more litter you spot when you are actively searching for it. 

The lessons from plogging can be applied to any form of service. When you are actively scanning for ways to help others, you notice a lot more opportunities. Intentionality is key to maximizing benefits. A shift in priorities is also necessary. The way we usually measure progress and profit may not translate in the economy of service. When our primary goal is to bless others and not cause harm, we see things differently. Things that are out of place and incongruous catch our eye. We notice disparities in power, wealth, and privilege. We sense the pain of others. Instead of moving on with our own goals, we become willing to change our agenda.

Observing Opportunities

“Then Rahab let them down by a rope through the window. (Her house was built as part of the city wall; she lived in the wall.)” (Joshua 2:15 NET)

It was still dark when I started my run that morning. The full moon lit up the dark sky. Over the next hour, I noticed the moon kept moving closer to the horizon. As the first rays of the sun grandly arrived in the east, the moon disappeared unceremoniously in the west. This was the first time in my life that I had observed a moonset. I have watched the sun rise and set many times at numerous locations all around the world. I’ve woken up early and stayed up late on vacations to take pictures of the sun over oceans and mountains. Why did it take me so long to notice the moon’s movements?

Lunar gravity affects ocean tides, plant growth, and the Earth’s rotation. Invisibility does not equate to insignificance. A lack of observation does not represent a lack of importance. The movements of the moon are no less meaningful just because we fail to notice.

If I told you I had never seen the ocean, you would assume I didn’t live near an ocean--not that I hadn’t bothered to step outside and look. Sunsets, oceans, mountains, massive buildings, statues, etc., receive a lot of hype.  People will go to great lengths to observe the spectacular and experience the sensational. Yet, we miss the unassuming things right around us. 

The Bible tells the story of Rahab--a lowly woman who lived in a wall. No one paid any attention to what she did, yet, she changed the course of history by her actions. The poor, powerless, and voiceless have always lived in the margins of society. They don’t get a lot of hype. We don’t go out of our way to observe their plight or experience their hardships. Thus, we miss out on what is right in front of us. Invisibility is a failure on the part of the observer; it does not diminish the significance of the observed. 

 

Broken Pathways

“Send out your light and your truth; let them guide me.” (Psalm 43:3 NLT) 

I always get disoriented when running in unfamiliar, wooded areas. All the trails and trees look alike; there are no distinct landmarks. Sometimes the path abruptly ends due to a fallen tree or overgrown vegetation. It’s hard to know if you took a wrong turn or if the path continues up ahead. If there is a GPS signal, I can check the map on my phone. Since satellite signals can be spotty in tree covered areas, I print out a map and carry it with me whenever possible. I also keep scanning for signs that I am on the right track. I am thankful for any evidence of humanity--a clear path, a trail marker, a clearing, or a bench feel reassuring. Knowing others have gone this way before gives me hope and confidence that I am not lost. Once I know I am on the right track, I am able to move forward with confidence.

Similarly, there are times in life when I feel like I am lost in a wilderness. An unexpected crisis falls like a tree across my way, and I have no idea how to proceed. When the pathway in front of me is broken, I have learned to look to God for help. Sometimes I hear from Him immediately. Other times I don’t.  Prolonged periods of disorientation can be discouraging. Even in my desperation, I continually scan for signs of God’s presence. I pray for direction and discernment.  I do not ask to see too far ahead; I ask just enough guidance for the current phase. Each step I take requires trust. I move forward in gratitude. I am confident that God will provide clarity and truth according to His timetable. 

Lord, shine your light and your truth so that I can see the path clearly. Lead me. Let truth be my compass. Teach me to walk in trust and gratitude. 

 

Giving Up Your Rights

“Just because something is technically legal doesn’t mean that it’s spiritually appropriate. If I went around doing whatever I thought I could get by with, I’d be a slave to my whims.” (1 Corinthians 6:12 MSG)

Several years ago, my dad taught me a valuable lesson. He was packing for an international trip. Instead of taking the maximum amount of carry-on luggage that was allowed by the airlines, he packed his essentials into a small bag that would fit underneath the seat in front of him. I asked him why he would choose to relinquish his right to take two large bags like the rest of the passengers--not to mention the precious legroom on a long flight! He replied: “Most of the passengers will carry the maximum allowable luggage, thus filling up all the overhead bins on the airplane. If a few passengers like me are willing to give up their allotted space, someone else can have a bit more.” At the time, I thought my dad was making unnecessary sacrifices. I watched as people filed into the plane with more than their share of bags, taking advantage of any extra space. While I bristled at the unfairness of it all, my dad remained unperturbed. He wasn’t expecting anyone else to acknowledge, appreciate, or emulate his selflessness. 

Just because something is technically legal doesn’t mean that it is spiritually appropriate. If we went around doing whatever we could get away with, we would be shackled to our whims. There are times when giving up our rights can have a higher purpose. Our sacrifices may not be acknowledged, appreciated, or emulated. This might seem unfair, impractical, and pointless. However, there is inherent value in self-restraint. Even if our choices are hidden from the public, we know. Our sense of self-respect is deeply intertwined with how we behave when no one is watching. Abstaining from our individual freedoms may benefit our personal growth as well as the world around us. Let us use our privilege to make good choices wisely.