And the Beat Goes On

"By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going."
(Hebrews 11:8)

The journey of faith.

Have you ever stopped to think of the people of faith who have gone on before you? It really is quite amazing. I was blessed to be raised in a Christian home. Even my grandparents lives testified of their faithfulness and love of God. Church was central to my upbringing.

I really didn't know any difference.
This was a normal life to me.

But consider that for over 2000 years people have traveled their own distinct journey of faith. Sometimes we intersect paths, sometimes we run parallel alongside each other. But always, Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ make the journey to the heights with the Great Shepherd, one step at a time.

I made an observation this morning that touched my soul. I read an excerpt on obedience in Corrie ten Boom's book, Each New Day: "It is Jesus who restores any broken connection between God and us. I remember when my connection was broken by disobedience. I said, 'Lord, I will go everywhere You send me, but never send me to Germany.' (Corrie was a Holocaust survivor). When I did not receive any guidance, I asked if there was disobedience in my life. The Lord said, 'Germany.' The very moment I decided to obey, my connection was restored! And how God blessed my time in that country!" Corrie went on to pray, "Lord, I do not ask to see the distant scene. One step is enough for me."

Corrie's words were compelling in themselves, but there was more to this God-moment. My copy of Each New Day was purchased several years ago at a thrift store. It is copyrighted 1977 and signed by the previous owner - Beatrice Spur. This little book is falling apart. It has been loved by two women of faith who have worn its pages ragged. As I read Corrie's words this morning, I realized that Beatrice had underlined several words in this passage. The bold lines underscored Beatrice's battle(?) or desires(?) with the color of fresh mowed grass. The velvety green marks jumped off the page in a way that only the Holy Spirit could achieve. I felt Beatrice's heart, the desire to please her Lord, the cost of her discipleship.

And I felt an alliance with her - a bond of faith.

My heart joined with a woman whom I have never met, yet I recognized Jesus in her.
One day I will meet Beatrice on the streets of glory as we shout "Hallelujah to the Lord Most High! Hosanna to the King!"

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith." (Hebrews 12:1,2, The New Living Translation)

Father, Like Corrie said and Beatrice underlined, one step at a time. You show us one step at a time and lead us forward. Thank You for the faithful ones who have gone before us. It really is quite amazing Lord - this walk of faith. Thank You for loving us and showing us Your Truth. Thank You for the Body of Christ - our sisters and brothers who have gone before us and those that surround and undergird us today. We give you praise and honor, Lord. Glory to the Lord Most High!