Morah Karen Low Deloge
Let us run with endurance the race set before us,
focusing on Yeshua, the initiator and perfecter of faith.
Hebrews 12:1-2 TLV
There have been plenty of times when I felt road-weary and jet-lagged. I've even forgotten where I was going from time to time! I remember staring at terminal screens with a sleep-deprived brain, mumbling, Where am I again?, and fumbling through my bag for gate information for the next leg of the journey. Or, trudging through muddy trails in the middle of the jungle thinking, we're going to be lost forever in some unchartered sago swamp!
A long journey can be wearisome and confusing. You don't always understand your surroundings, the language and culture. The best option is to put on thicker skin and
take a healthy portion of patience. In other words, "run with endurance." This may not be the most comfortable patch in the trail. Mosquitoes are on your neck, the mud's up to your ankles, and the heat is unbearable. You may have leeches resembling black magic markers running down your legs, an aching back, and oh yes, crocs in the river, but hang on. This isn't our forever home.
Whether circling the rivers of the rain forest or navigating life's many challenges, proven directions from a reliable source are invaluable, critical to a successful journey and a safe arrival. Stand on what you know and follow the compass.
How we praise G-d for giving us the perfect instructions for this journey we're on! Our Father doesn't expect us to create the map or navigate unfamiliar terrain by ourselves. We don't even have to set the course. As Hebrews reminds us, the race is set before us, chosen by the Father! Even better, He accompanies us on the trail of life, committed to getting you all the way home!
What a maze life can be! Whatever you're going through and whatever lies ahead, our faithful Shepherd shows up at every twist and turn in the road. Nothing is wasted, and all our trials become fuel for the next chapter. Let's not get weary. The Father knows exactly where you are and precisely where you're going.
shot of the Sepik River en route to the tribe where we lived in Papua New Guinea
All praise to the One who said, "I AM the way," and again, "Follow me."
John 14:6, 12:26