Every Step of the Way

For I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from his love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels won't, and all the powers of hell itself cannot keep God's love away. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, or where we are - high above the sky, or in the deepest ocean - nothing will ever be able to separate us from the love of God demonstrated by our Lord Jesus Christ when he died for us. Romans 8: 38-39 (TLB)

Stay away from the love of money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, "I will never, never fail you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5 (TLB)

Gretchen Nelson lives in Florida. After a long, hot summer, her family took a trip to the mountains to hike in the cool weather. Her son planned their first hike, one that promised an amazing panoramic view at the top. Halfway up the trail, they stopped at a lovely overlook. As they ate their lunch, they enjoyed speaking with the hikers who passed them. Many remarked on the beautiful view at the top. After lunch, they continued up the trail. But when they were a half mile from the summit, the rain came pouring down. Gretchen's son suggested they keep climbing through the dense rain. But even if they reached the top, Gretchen gently explained there would be nothing to see, The mountaintop was covered in clouds, and the view was gone. So they made their way back to their car. Though they did not reach the summit, they agreed that they had experienced an exciting adventure and had enjoyed meeting many travelers.

Gretchen compares this story to her own faith journey. She always strives to be at the top of the mountain. While she often falls very short of this aim, she has learned that God is always with her, and this inspires Gretchen to continue the journey. Despite setbacks, God's abiding love surrounds us. Even if we don't always get to the top, God walks with us every step of the way.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to remember that wherever our path may take us, you walk beside us and guide us every step of the way, in Jesus' name. Amen.