Along the Journey

One of the great metaphors for the life of faith is that of a pilgrimage – or a journey. And the truth is, whether we physically move or not, all along this journey we are continually leaving behind, saying goodbye, and moving forward. As they say, the only constant in life is change. Which, can be scary, disconcerting…

Now, there are times when we feel led to make changes. And those changes – while scary can still be a good thing. When the time comes, when we get beyond this pandemic, I think we’ll all certainly be glad to leave the masks behind and the need for social distance. I’d also like to leave behind any bitterness or anger I feel. That doesn’t serve me. I’d love it if we could leave behind identity politics, partisan fueled hate – any hate of any other human for that matter. That all makes this world a little uglier, and the journey a little harder.

We might also at times be led to leave behind a destructive habit – or an abusive relationship. There will always be times when we feel led to leave things behind in life.

But there are also times when change just happens to us – leaving just happens. Loved ones die. Friends move away. Jobs change… Retirement comes about. Children grow up and move out and move on.

Even changes for the good can be hard, even changes we decide we want. We like that secure, comfortable, manageable existence. There can be a temptation to try and build fences around life – to keep things as they are. Or, to get stuck in the past – wishing things were as they used to be.

Along life’s journey – along all of the leavings and goodbyes – even up until the final leaving, when faced with change or the need to leave behind, we have choices. We can resist mightily. We can go along only kicking and screaming. We can cling to the past. We can become bitter or angry. Or, we can trust that God is with us and that God will make a way forward.

Let us pray: Holy God, in the midst of changing uncertain times, help us to notice your presence and to trust that will guide us, carry us when need be, and empower us to serve you. May we ever live out of your grace and peace. In Christ’s name. Amen.