Way

It was more than just a surprise when I woke up one morning and my husband announced that I needed to help him finish packing for my birthday surprise.  When we set off in our car, now loaded with luggage, I asked him again, “What way are we going?”  It wasn’t until we continued to drive north that I started to realize it was in the direction of the airport.  Final destination you ask?  Italy and my dream city, Venice!  Excited to begin this new adventure, it was early in the morning as we made our way to the small boat that would motor us to our hotel, along the most amazing canals and architecture.  As it was too early to check into our hotel, we looked at each other and proclaimed, “Let’s explore.”  However, as we were off to navigate the hundreds of walkways, alleys and bridges making up this island, I suddenly became a little anxious.  With each turn, I quickly tried to remember which way we had walked from and became increasingly concerned about being able to recall our route.  “What if we couldn’t find our way back to our hotel?”  Well, the good news was we did find our way back.  The better news was, after unpacking, I came across a brochure of “How to Explore Venice.”  Guess what one of the suggestions was at the top of this list?  “Get lost!”   And for the rest of the trip, I was able to stop worrying about trying to remember what way we were going and relax.  Isn’t that what happens to each of us throughout our lifetime?  We get lost; we get off track; we’re uncomfortable in our surroundings and it stresses us out.  But that’s the time we need to remind ourselves that Jesus is always our way back.  We chase down deserted alleys and many blind corners that lead us in different directions.  We chase ways that we’re convinced will satisfy all our needs and desires.   So, let’s remind ourselves to just relax and feel confident that if, and when, we lose our way in life, Jesus is always our way back!  AND, Jesus is the only way to true happiness and joy.  Amen.

“And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’  when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” Isaiah 30:21