Do you remember the definition of Pilgrim? Just a reminder – “a person who journeys to a sacred place for religious reasons.” Can you imagine the necessary planning the pilgrims of long ago must have done, preparing for the long journey to a new and unfamiliar land? Their goal was religious freedom, but the Pilgrims didn’t just jump into a boat and take their best chance at reaching their destination. When we relocated to Florida recently, I had so many lists of things we had to do to prepare for that journey. But, as I mentioned before, luckily we did not have to travel through unimaginable perils to reach our destination (although many times it felt that way). Like the pilgrims of long ago, you and I are also in search of our ultimate destination, a special place with God. Our compass is set for that sacred place in Heaven, but we also long for confirmation that we are walking on the right path towards our ultimate destination. What can you and I add to our planning list that will aid in keeping us on the right route? In this first week of our journey as pilgrims, we need to be better focused on walking towards our “sacred place” and our purpose. Being able to focus on being in sync with God’s plan for us requires connecting on a much deeper level. How can we do that? More times than I’d like to admit, I have a hard time focusing. So, for both our benefits, let’s consider some tools to assist us in focusing on our journey. Have you ever walked a labyrinth or even been on a pilgrimage? It requires removing ourselves from the things of this world and only listening for God’s “still, small voice.” A labyrinth is not a corn maze one tries to navigate during this time of year, praying they don’t get lost. A labyrinth is an ancient practice used by many different faiths for spiritual centering, contemplation, and prayer. Entering its directed path, you start your walk, slowly, (but intentionally) while quieting your mind and focusing on a spiritual question or simple prayer. I was lucky to experience its power many years ago at a church in Ocean City, Maryland. Along with others, we quietly followed the marked pathway towards the center and back out again. At one point, I was oblivious to who was in front of me and that anyone was even following me – it was only God and me. I was a pilgrim on a journey to my “sacred place” with the One that matters most! Somehow, walking on that simple path, although repetitive, was both calming and healing to the mind.
So, are you willing to give it a try? Schedule a date and time to meet up with God. It may be in your church prayer garden, a local walking trail, or a special place that comes to mind. (It may even be in your backyard.) Maybe even ask a fellow pilgrim friend to join you. Just remember to only be “in conversation” with God on your path. *If you feel really bold and drawn to walking an actual Labyrinth, go to labyrinthlocator.com.
“This is what the Lord says: ‘Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.'” Jeremiah 6:16
Why follow From God's Lips?
In our busy world, our soul desires quiet time with God. His desire is that we spend time with him, focusing only our building our relationship with him. He wants to hear our words speaking to Him - our needs, concerns and definitely remembering to give Him thanks for everything - both in joy and sorrow. God is calling you to spend time with him through the positive words He has placed in my heart. I hope you will, along with me, share and grow in His love.
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1 thought on “Pilgrim”
Donna,
Thank you for your advice. It always stirs something in me to try harder. I am learning how important it is to be with God alone because of you and my faith community. For this I am so thankful!
🙏🙏❤️
From God's Lips 
Donna,
Thank you for your advice. It always stirs something in me to try harder. I am learning how important it is to be with God alone because of you and my faith community. For this I am so thankful!
🙏🙏❤️
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