Spiritual Touchstones

As an experienced mountain climber, I should have known better than to hike without a detailed map.

I got to my designated point of departure without any trouble.

But while the path was marked pretty well, I did encounter false paths, fields crowded with boulders with no visible track and places where the markers were either faded by time or obscured by new tree growth and moss.

So I spent the time on the path having to search for the next marker, staring at overly simplified directions or doubling back on myself.

A detailed map would have allowed me to hike with confidence, to admire the beauty of the vistas, flora and fauna, and to enjoy the peace and quiet away from the city.

This experience reminded me of the importance of spiritual touchstones.

Without worship, prayer and Bible study the path of my Christian journey is not as clear, and I find I’m less comfortable as I approach the different turns and false paths of life.

Continual reading, discussion and meditation make our walk with Christ more meaningful and joyful, giving us a fresh sense of where we need to be heading.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us be disciplined in our worship, our praying, and our Bible study so that we can keep your guidance fresh in our hearts and minds. Amen