Apr 4, 2022
In January I was visiting my son Alex in Colorado. Being
the adventurous type, he wanted to take me on a hike in the
mountains. Of course, who was I to turn down a fun alpine
excursion? It happened to be snowing a bit, but after a few
miles of driving we found a trail to ascend.
Everything started off wonderfully, it was like walking in a
Narnian winter wonderland...however things quickly began to change
as this flatlander started to breathe in the oxygen thin air.
Each step became more and more labor intense. It got to the
point where I had to intentionally tell my legs to keep
moving. I was ready to tap out!
Do you know what kept me going? Alex and his encouragement
and slight deception (I heard, "Just a little bit further"
for at least an hour) kept me trudging along, putting one foot in
front of the other. I pressed on until we finally reached the
summit, where I was able to behold a picturesque scene of a
beautiful valley and meadow, with massive snow flakes falling in
the air!
Here's the important truth: I never would have accomplished that
adventure on my own. I needed a partner, a companion to help
me reach the destination. Life is best lived,
together.
On
this journey of following Jesus, it's fascinating how we make it
about our personal, individualistic, relationship with Jesus.
We give people space and let them figure out and wrestle with their
faith because we don't want to interfere or be a bother.
However, to be a disciple of Jesus not only implies, but requires
us to walk the journey with someone else. Why is that?
We follow Jesus better together. We overcome obstacles better
together. We reach our destination better together.
This shouldn't surprise us! The Bible is full of examples of
how we best experience God together in community. On Sunday,
we will take a look at one of those in examples in Psalm 133,
where the psalmist simply says:
Such
goods words for a time such as this. A time when more things
divide and separate us. A season where we isolate ourselves
in front of screens. A period of history where more people
then ever are struggling with isolation and loneliness. How
can we overcome the divisions, the isolation and experience the
blessings of living as a united people pursuing Jesus?
To learn more, make sure and listen as we continue with part 14 of
Long Obedience in the Same Direction, we know that you will find it
to be very helpful!