Luke 9:51
Some translations say, "he set his face toward Jerusalem," gazing into his destiny boldly, with unwavering resolve.
Truth be told, I don't know how to consistently do likewise. My walk with our Lord has always been one of what often seems like "hide and seek." I sometimes even feel like we're playing spiritual "Marco Polo." One minute, I know right where Jesus is and I leap out toward him, swinging my arms around in the darkness hoping to just brush against him for a moment. Sometimes I do. Other times I'm nowhere near him.
I don't think I ever truly doubt that he's there. It's just that sometimes I get so caught up in the effort I'm making that I don't take my time and pause to listen. I don't quiet my mind so as to notice a ripple in the pool here, a splash there, the sound of someone close by trying to breathe softly or not to laugh because I'm SO CLOSE!
And the longer my eyes remain shut the easier it is for me to become more fearful. Am I alone in this thing? Has he lost interest? Does he even want to play anymore? Should I try a real quick "FISH OUT OF WATER!!!"? How little faith have I to ask such questions? We're not talking about some absentee landlord deity, here. This is the Lord of Luke 9! This is the Jesus who "sets his face" toward my perfect, or rather "perfected," life with him forever and who resolutely determines to guide me there every step of the way.
But he wants me to make the choice, to take the step, to walk the walk - to be truly free. Love bought or sold is no love at all. He'll never take away the challenge or the toil, but neither will he refuse to yell back "Polo!" enthusiastically each time I belt out "Marco!"
Lord Jesus, guide my every step. For I abandon myself entirely to you... MARCO!
I was thinking about hide and seek myself this week. And felt an awful lot like I had been tearing around the yard! I've slowed myself down. Thanks for the "not alone!"
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