Crossroads: Reaching Valuable Path, Finding Rest

This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.” (Jeremiah 6:16 NIV)

Crossroads

Ouch! The Lord speaks…and we talk back? Not a good idea. Direct disobedience is overrated, try listening to hear God’s sweet voice. In order to hear God’s voice, we have to quiet ourselves, and desire to be filled with all God has for us. Such crossroads occur in order to straighten our paths.

Stretched

What were you doing May 25, 1986? There were an estimated 6.5 million individuals participating in “Hands Across America.” An exciting day for our small rural community. Hands were stretched down HWY 51 linking with rest of the country. This came to memory today as I began thinking about individuals I’ve crossed paths.

Paths

Wouldn’t it be neat to line every individual we’ve ever crossed paths? Give each one a hug, telling them how much they are loved (even those remembered rotten.) How long would our lines be? Many chanced meetings turn into friendships. Others nodded as we pass. One question high on my children’s list, “Do you have to talk with everyone?” I love talking to random people. Then can be quite quiet around ones I know.

Branching….

It’s very interesting to consider how far our line would stretch. If your line is short, it’s time to branch out. Might be a little slanted for me, much of my life spent as an extravert. Crossed paths may not be by chance, there may be specific reasons. God is large and in charge.

Rest

Ask God and ourselves, “Is this the good way?” Once realized it is, we have the honor to follow and find rest for our souls. This is great news in a world full of societal confusion. Why would anyone turn down this offer? Let’s be wise to ensure we are on this amazing path to find rest for our souls.

Be encouraged!