The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.
-Proverbs 4:18
I love to walk on the paths of JCPC to clear my mind, pray, and to reconnect with God during my day. For years I have traced these familiar paths which fill me with a sense of solace and renew my soul. I enjoy the times that Gray and I meet up "for a walk" and discuss the ministries of JCPC or share personally.
Oh and did I mention the sunlight? Nature's mood elevator quickly lifts my spirits like nothing else.
Recently, I went "off-roading" with Gray. He showed me some paths behind the Methodist church that I had never walked in 23 years. A whole new world seemed to open up to me that had been waiting for my footsteps for over two decades. I'm a creature of habit so I regularly stuck to the familiar. What kept me from exploring? Routines, habits, and rituals I suspect. They provide comfort, but over time can hinder our development.
The proverb links our faith with paths and sunlight along our spiritual journey with God. Many times I hear someone comment that they "need to get back on track with God." That is often true, but might it also be as true that many times what we need on our walk with God is to explore new paths that God has waiting for us?
At JCPC we have been walking familiar paths together for years. In September, we began tracing novel paths provided to us through our new building. A Great Hall which is...well...great! And the class rooms are phenomenal. Above all the natural lighting calls to everyone who enters. Have you noticed how your spirits are lifted, your mood elevated and an overall sense of well-being comes over your soul?
We are the same church, but are on new pathways together. I am excited about where God is leading us and trust there will be the morning sun shining brighter till the full light of day. To God be the glory!
Prayer for Today
Lead us on paths of righteousness for your name sake, Merciful God, and bring sunshine into our days, so that following you will ever be our purpose. Amen.
