The Journey - The Fork

I well remember being on a hill walk with family, and the trek was long, winding, and steep but we were determined to reach the top where an amazing vista awaited us. But we were impatient. Right about then, we came across another small group of walkers and we got talking. Having told them our plans to keep to the path, they suggested strongly that we take the direct route up the very steep gradient. That way we wouldn’t have to walk so far, and we would get there quicker. We listened, and set off in good spirits straight up this climb because it was no longer a time consuming, long walk.

By the time we got to the summit, we were bruised, and very tired. In fact the joy of the journey had gone completely. Even the flask of hot tea didn’t help. The problem was that we took the advice of strangers, and went away from the recommended route on the map. Had we stayed on the narrow path, we would have arrived in better shape, and a lot happier.

When you come to a decision about which path to take in our faith walk, do we sometimes listen to the world’s unsafe advice and leave the recommended way? Or do we have the courage of our convictions to stay the course until the end. Then and only then can we enjoy the full rewards of the efforts made to complete the journey.

This is also true of our choice in accepting the words and example of Jesus, or taking the shortcut which leads away from the source of life. The choice is for each individual to make. No one is exempt. To avoid is the same as rejecting or saying no. So be careful when you come to each fork in the road and choose well.

“But maybe you don’t want to serve the Lord. You must choose for yourselves today. Today you must decide who you will serve. But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15