Destination Unknown

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Navigating our way through life can be a challenge. When Columbus and his crew sailed from Europe to America they had a destination in mind but they didn’t reach it. They went into uncharted territory looking for a better route only to find the unexpected. Being up to the challenge they created accurate maps so others could follow. Over the years these maps have changed as technology has increased and roads have been built. With electronic mapping you no longer read a map; the navigation system tells you how to get to your destination.

Do you remember taking a walk down a trail for the first time? Everything is new and exciting. You trust that the path in front of you will lead you to your desired destination. It can be a wonderful journey for relaxing, taking pictures and remembering later. But what if your mind was filled with fear? That same journey could be scary and unsettling. Missing all the wonderful sights and memories you rush to the end. No matter how fast you run the trail seems to never end. What takes a few minutes, seems to take you weeks. Frantically you may find yourself stepping off the trail and running in circles while others are strolling with contentment.

Trusting the path before us leads to peace. What if you can’t see the path? How do you navigate a spiritual path in a physical world? Psalm 107 gives some insight.

Psalm 107:23-32 (NASV)

Those who go down to the sea in ships,
Who do business on great waters;
They have seen the works of the LORD,
And His wonders in the deep.
For He spoke and raised up a stormy wind,
Which lifted up the waves of the sea.
They rose up to the heavens, they went down to the depths;
Their soul melted away in their misery.
They reeled and staggered like a drunken man,
And were at their wits’ end.
Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
And He brought them out of their distresses.
He caused the storm to be still,
So that the waves of the sea were hushed.
Then they were glad because they were quiet,
So He guided them to their desired haven.
 Let them give thanks to the LORD for His lovingkindness,
And for His wonders to the sons of men!
Let them extol Him also in the congregation of the people,
And praise Him at the seat of the elders.

It is not the path that we should trust, but the path maker. Imagine with me that Columbus went exactly where he was supposed to go. He thought he was going to India, but his path was directed by God and he discovered the route to a new world.

What about me? I thought I knew where I was going but I have stumbled upon something different, more challenging and scary. Maybe I have lost my direction only to find His destiny. My earthly destination is unknown, but I plan on enjoying the ride as I follow God’s peace. Enjoy your week and I will be back next week with more.