The Journey
When we were growing up, we often took short trips with our father to the farm. Other times we heard our parents say: “The journey was long, but it was a necessary one.” I did not quite understand what my parents were conveying until I got much older. Since then, I have come to understand the difference between a trip and a journey.
A trip is usually covering a short distance. Conversely, a journey is much longer and adventurous. Let me suggest that this statement is not meant to have confusion over words; it is not meant to test our grammar. The paradox is, each of us has experienced a short journey; each of us has experienced a long trip. The implication is this: whether we have experienced a journey or a trip, both may be difficult, and discoveries might be made along the way. However, a trip might be too short for discoveries to be made. Thus, the invitation is to ready yourself for the journey.
As we embark upon ministry together on our district, the journey will be different for each of us depending on our ministry contexts. Yet, I encourage us to consider this new beginning as a journey of faith. Allow the journey to be one of eager anticipation of the unknown. If we knew what the end was, we would not be as eager partners in ministry. Since we do not know what the end is, let us embrace the journey by readying ourselves in our various ministry contexts.
Let us allow the Word of God to be the lamp unto our feet and the light unto our path (Psalm 119:105). Let us begin out time together on our district by trusting the Lord with all our heart and let us not lean on our own understanding. In all our ways let us acknowledge the Lord, and He will make straight our paths (Romans 8:38-39).
To each call there is a response. I am calling upon you as fellow colleagues to join me in leading your laity and by helping us make our district second to none. What is your response?
Blessings to you!
