(When you see posts like this in the “book excerpts” category, they are thoughts that I am pulling together for the “book” that is in its beginning stages. I won’t post everything that I pass on to my editor, but will put things up occasionally to let you know of its progress and to get feedback from you, my readers 🙂 This is new territory for me, and slightly scary!)
Every journey begins with one step. It may be a huge and confident step. It may be the smallest baby step. But if we don’t take that first step, then we don’t allow ourselves to experience new territory. What is it they say? The definition of insanity is to continue doing (or not doing) the same thing and expecting different results. A journey requires a first step.
This is not a “how-to” guide. Each of our lives is far too unique and our God is far too big to be constrained into a simple “here’s-how you-do-it” box. No, this is a step in a journey of intimacy with Jesus and should you come along for the adventure you will have your own personal experience that will be unlike any other. As we head out there are a few things that a journey of this magnitude requires:
1. A relationship with Jesus. The only way to have an intimate relationship with someone is to know them in the first place. If you have accepted Jesus into your life and know that He alone has saved you, given you life and brought you into a relationship with God, you are already on the path of this great journey.
2. The road map. God’s word is called that for a reason. It’s His words to us. His love letter to His bride. His love notes to His children. It’s where we find out who He is and what draws us to know and love Him more.
3. Traveling companions. Surround yourself with others who are on the same path, experiencing the journey as well. Their pace will be different than yours. They may be behind or ahead of you. But it’s essential to have others who share a passion for this adventure so that you can help and encourage each other along the way.
4. The right attire. The only thing that you need to wear on this journey is an honest, open and humble heart. A heart available to love and adventure. And as you bring this heart and continue the journey, you will see it grow, change, soften and strengthen by the power of an amazing love.
My hand is here for yours to walk together in this. But more importantly, Jesus is extending His hand to you and inviting you to be part of a most profound journey. An invitation to know and love the very heart of God and to be loved and known by Him. Whether your steps are large or small, let’s go to places we have never gone before….
