Travelling

Every summer when I was a child, my family drove from Texas to North Carolina to attend a family reunion.

Much of the journey was enjoyably scenic; but the first 550 miles were on an empty desert road. Before we left, my father filled the car with petrol. My mother packed a cool-box full of food and drinks. The children took books, car games and music.

Our summer treks remind me of the incredible journey of Joseph and Mary. I admire them because when they understood that God had a plan for their lives, they got ready.

They seriously considered God’s vision. They heard the word of God from the angel and took it to heart. Though Joseph and Mary didn’t know where the journey would lead, they trusted God.

Sometimes our journey through Advent is scenic and enjoyable, but often it can seem like a long desert trek.

In either case, we can help one another to prepare. We can look for God, listen for his call and consider that he has a purpose for us. And, like Mary and Joseph, when we don’t quite understand where the journey will lead, we can put our trust in God.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for our journey and for church families that are ready and willing to travel with us; in Jesus’ name. Amen