another steps down before me

An idea for perhaps a larger sermon, another unfinished work, or simply preparation for the day before the young ones: types of faithwalks. Three very different passages came to mind describing the kinds of walks we are called to make when we turn over the heart to Heaven.

First faithwalk comes in the form of Ps23. It is the one envisioned by all who bow the knee. Lord says He will lead you beside the still waters. Lord says He will take you through liar's house without harm. Lord says He will take you to this house where you will dwell in the midst of love and mercy and goodness. This vision, however, sometimes ends in disappointment and shock when the trials come a-calling. But this walk of peace is significant.

Second faithwalk comes in the form of Matt14 and Peter on the waves. It is the one encountered by all who bow the knee. Lord says He will call you and you need to follow. And sometimes you won't know where you are headed. And sometimes you will feel completely unprepared. And sometimes you will be gripped by utter terror in the going. But Lord says I am here for you and my hand is here for you and will you walk to me walk to me walk to me. This walk of trust is significant.

Last faithwalk comes in the form of Luke23 and Simon of Cyrene. It is experienced by all who bow the knee. Lord promises trial and tribulation and undrossing fire to all. And the walk of faith is often up pebbly slopes with a heavy burden across our shoulders. And even being beside the Lord doesn't reduce the burden. And the end of the road of that steep walk is sometimes a horrible place. This walk of pain is significant.

Something in all these walks is the same: it is not the path that is central, nor is it the effort or journey. It is, in fact, the One we are following. He promises only our best interests in leading us on our particular trail. He promises to be there with us on that trail. He promises that His love is the reason for this walking. Something in all these walks, indeed.