On a Journey Following the Master

Scripture tells of many pilgrims who went on a trip, a journey, a pilgrimage.   God told Abraham: Leave your country and go to the land I will show you.   Joseph was sold by his brothers into slavery and ends up in Egypt; years later, God uses Joseph’s position in Egypt to save his people from famine in Palestine.  Hundreds of years later, God tells Moses to lead his people out of slavery in Egypt and through the wilderness to the promised land. 

In the New Testament, God’s Son is born while his earthly parents, Joseph and Mary, are on a trip to Bethlehem for the census.  When Joseph is warned that some bad guys are out to kill their son, the family packs up and moves to Egypt.  Then, when the coast is clear, they return to Nazareth in Galilee.  Much of Jesus’ ministry is spent traveling around various places.  Years later, Paul is converted to Christ on the road to Damascus. 

So many important things happened in the Bible, when God’s people were traveling from one place to another.  The Christian’s life is often called “walking with Jesus.”  God’s people are pilgrims following the Master.

Hebrews 12:1 tells us to “run with perseverance the race that is set out for us.”   Life’s obstacles will test our perseverance; steadfast endurance is needed to finish the race or pilgrimage.  

Hebrews 12:2 tells us, “Let us focus on Jesus.”  We have a tendency to look at others around us to see how we’re doing.  The problem is that means taking our eyes off of Jesus.  Jesus endured the cross and its shame.  He endured hardships and suffered much before finishing his journey.  If you’re going through a hardship now, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, and keep moving toward the finish line.

When you are tired and worn out, remember the promise of Isaiah 40:29, “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”

On your journey through life, begin wherever you are.  If you’re not living in a relationship with Jesus, begin by confessing your sins and asking Jesus to forgive your sins.  Make it your goal to follow Jesus as your Master.  Read His Word, the Bible. 

Then take a step forward in faith.  Abraham left his homeland, not knowing where God was leading him to.  Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem, not knowing how or where their baby would be delivered.  Trust God to guide you and your decisions.  Step forward in faith.

Let God be your Guide on the journey of life.  God will lead you and watch over you.  He desires what’s best for you and me.  Make this verse, Psalm 25:4, your prayer - “Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”