A Time to Trust

Lenten Season is a time of reflection, a time to consider the path to the cross that our Lord Jesus Christ took. It’s a time to reflect on our own personal paths in life and it’s a time to trust. For some, the paths are smooth, for some, hilly, crooked and rocky – like stepping stones on which we trip and sometimes fall. But often, we find strength to get up again.

I often think of the journey, the path, that the Israelites took to get to the promised land and how God’s presence was with them during one of those times in the form of a cloud… “And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people.” - Exodus 13:21-22

This made me think of God’s Holy Spirit and that presence being with me throughout any path I find myself on. Just as the Israelites were never alone for they had God and one another, I too am never alone. I have all that plus God’s word… “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” - Psalm 119:105. When I find myself on an unfamiliar path, whether it’s a work challenge, a health crisis or caring for an older parent, I turn to prayer, scripture, reflection and a friend who knows me well. During quiet times, I reflect on a bible verse on trust. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” - Proverbs 3:5-6

What I have found is that often change comes while I’m on a new path, and scary as it seems, it’s a good thing. For change means growth. It means opportunities for new possibilities. I’m reminded again and again that God is faithful and that God’s word guides me and leads me to peace.

I hope this Lenten season, as we reflect on the path of Christ to the cross, we reflect on our own paths. May we remember that just as God was with Christ through that path, with the Israelites during their journey, God is with us too through God’s Holy Spirit, God’s Word, and those who love and know us oh so well.

Blessed Lenten Season,

Sandy D.