He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. - Micah 6:8
Christians often talk about their faith journey. But what does it really look like to walk through life in relationship with God?
As a little girl, I felt the warmth of my palm tucked securely in my Dad’s hand as we walked together on family hikes. Being the youngest, my place was always at his side, benefitting from his guidance and protection on the trail. He would set a pace that was never too difficult for my smaller gait. Hand in hand we navigated muddy patches and chose the best routes through the woods. Every now and then he’d lean down to point out something of interest along the way. When we encountered a fallen tree on the path, he’d raise my arm high in the air, lifting me up and over the obstacle. Sometimes we’d come to a shallow stream, strewn with a mix of boulders and stones. As we approached the water, I’d feel his grip gently tighten around my fingers. Then, without hesitation, our feet would move together, leaping from one rock to the next, until we reached the far shore in unrehearsed choreography. There was safety in his presence and excitement for what I would see ahead as we walked together.
Though not a perfect analogy, the hikes with my earthly father capture much of the essence of the Christian journey of faith through life—never without the guidance and protection of our Heavenly Father and always held securely in His hands.
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
Stop and envision God grasping your hand right now, bending close to be present with you in whatever you’re experiencing, and whispering His love in your ear. He is ready to guide you, already protecting you and keeping your hand securely in His.