Destination or Journey

The last few weeks have taught me a lot about “journeys.” I started out focused on “the destination” - getting my family and belongings to Silverton, Oregon - and instead found myself consumed by a journey.

This wasn’t a road trip, a vacation, or even a simple GPS led adventure. This was a journey. We were taken off the interstate on occasion by breakdowns, floods, and the occasional road construction. At other times we chose to see the sights, experience new things, eat, and rest. Often, the destination seemed far off, but we were growing, learning, and having new experiences.

After arriving in Silverton a couple days later than planned, I began to ponder what it really means to journey. The Bible is filled with journeys – Noah and his boating experience, Joseph walking like an Egyptian, Moses and his quest by land, through sea, and up mountains…and the list could go on and on.

These are all such great journeys, but I also thought about Jesus’ distinct journey and destination. Even though Jesus knew his final destination was Jerusalem and crucifixion outside the city, it did not stop him from experiencing the journey en route. Scripture is clear that Jesus took the time on his way to the cross to heal, welcome, bless and have compassion on those he met. I believe he did that to give us an example of what it means to journey together in this life.

That is what the church is all about – living this journey! You and I can become overly focused on the destination, and then miss the sights, the people, and some of the best experiences that God has for us. I don’t want to miss those here at SFC, and I hope you don’t either.

I encourage you this week, if you haven’t already, take a moment and get off the “interstate of life” and enjoy the journey!