Are We There Yet?
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Life can be seen as a pilgrimage toward God, a spiritual journey that mirrors a child’s eager question during a car ride: “Are we there yet?” Just as children look forward to the destination, we too yearn for our eternal home with God. However, unlike a car ride, we do not know the length of this journey. Instead of feeling uncertain, we should embrace the mystery with enthusiasm, eager to live each day fully as we move closer to our ultimate goal. Please read more.From birth, we embark on this personal and communal journey. Every decision we make brings us either nearer or further from God. We do not walk this path alone; we are surrounded by fellow travelers, each with their own joys and struggles. Together, we form a supportive community of believers. As Proverbs 3:5-6 teaches, we should “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely; In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths.” This trust in God guides us on our pilgrimage, ensuring that our journey leads us closer to Him.
Children often demonstrate boundless enthusiasm, eager to explore the world with excitement and wonder. As Christians, we are called to maintain this same attitude on our spiritual journey. This does not mean we ignore life’s difficulties, but that we face them with hope and trust, knowing that God is guiding us. Jesus said in Matthew 18:3, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.” Approaching life with a childlike heart helps us stay focused on our ultimate destination.We are not meant to journey alone. Our faith is communal, and we are called to support one another. Galatians 6:2 urges us, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.” By lifting each other up, we reflect God’s love and unity. Relationships with fellow believers enriches our journey, helping us grow spiritually and emotionally. This sense of community is vital as we face life’s challenges and celebrate its blessings together.
Throughout this journey, we are called to holiness. This calling is for everyone, not just a few. Holiness is about striving to align our lives with God’s will, making choices that reflect His love. It involves an ongoing effort to live virtuously, even in the small decisions we make every day. 1 Peter 1:15-16 reminds us, “As he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in every aspect of your conduct.” Though we are imperfect, the journey toward holiness brings us closer to God.
As we walk this path, everything we do should be directed toward fulfilling God’s divine plan. This requires discernment, prayer, and surrendering our desires for God’s greater purpose. Recognizing that our lives are part of a larger story written by God, helps us find true meaning. Jeremiah 29:11 reassures us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord.” Trusting in God’s plan provides comfort and clarity as we navigate the uncertainties of life.
The unknown length of our journey can be unsettling, but it invites us to trust in God’s providence. We do not know how many days we have or the specific challenges we will face. However, this uncertainty encourages us to live in the present, trusting that God is guiding us every step of the way. Psalm 119:105 reminds us, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” By placing our trust in God, we can journey with peace and confidence, knowing He is always with us.
In the end, life’s pilgrimage is about moving closer to God with joy and anticipation. As Philippians 3:14 states, “I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God’s upward calling, in Christ Jesus.” Let us carry the question “Are we there yet?” in our hearts, not as a sign of impatience, but as a reminder of the joy awaiting us when we reach our eternal home with God.
Heavenly Father, help me to always approach you with the enthusiasm of a little child. Help me to continually draw closer to you, by walking in the footsteps of your Son. Give me to courage to approach others along the journey of life with the love and compassion of Jesus. Amen!
AMDG
Two Very Important Announcements
WEBSITE DELAY
- We had hoped to launch our newly redesigned website on Thursday last week. Due to a few technical issues, the launch has been delayed one week. The change over will occur on Thursday September 19th. There is a potential that our site might be down for a few hours on Thursday.
EMAIL PROBLEM
- We recently discovered that we have NOT been receiving your email messages when sent from our contact us form for several months. We have likely missed many messages. This will be fixed with the new site. If you have reached out recently, and did not get a response, I apologize. Please use the contact us form beginning Friday this week. I am sorry that we did not know about this sooner. I try to respond to every email so if I did not respond to one of yours, it’s because I never received it. Please resend anything you may have sent. I love nothing more than hearing from readers and I look forward to reconnecting on the new website. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Please take a moment to share your thoughts about today’s message below.
- Are We There Yet? - September 14, 2024
- Returning to Our Former Ways - September 8, 2024
- The Boxer Makes A Comeback - September 2, 2024
Brian
I am so glad to hear you are coming back to Good Shepherd! A blessing for us. Jim
Jim
Thanks! I am looking forward to being back at Good Shepherd Parish on December 7, 2024 for the Advent Retreat. I look forward to seeing you and all of my friends from Good Shepherd soon.
Brian