Special Gratitude Edition

Another early morning walk with The World’s Worst-Behaved Dogs. Fortunately, our path was clear of other dogs that day so we peacefully made our way through the neighborhood in the pre-dawn darkness. In fact, I was enjoying the walk so much, I decided to take the pups across the bridge that connected our subdivision with another.

My only hesitation was that in the darkness, we might encounter another dog-walker on the bridge. The last thing I wanted was a run-in between my bratty dogs and someone else’s very good dog. Crazy me – even though I wasn’t able to see into the distance, I was feeling brave (or maybe just not awake enough to make a wise choice) so we set out to cross the bridge.

To my surprise, a motion-sensitive streetlight suddenly turned on, illuminating the immediate space before us. As we continued, another light turned on. Then another. And another. The bridge I’d originally approached with caution and eyes peering nervously into the dark now lit up in front of us – just enough light for the next few steps, then the next, until we arrived on the other side of the bridge.

What about your walk? Is there a journey ahead of you that you’re facing with caution and eyes peering nervously into the dark? Good news, friend. The One Who’s beckoning you to take that journey is faithful. He’ll lead you safely to the other side; however, if you’re expecting Him to lay out the entire road map for you, you’ll most likely be disappointed. But here’s what He will do.

Jesus, the Light of the World, will give you just enough light for the next step. There’s comfort in a companion, and He knows that. As you walk the path, you’ll find His promise is true: “…Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20b) Whatever your journey, you can count on Jesus to be your Guide, your Strength, and your Protector. Just hold tight to His hand, and take it one step at a time.

Soon enough, the sun will rise, and you’ll be at the doorstep of your destination – whether you’re walking through a trial or navigating the road that leads you Home. He’ll make sure you arrive there safely.

Thank You, Lord, for never leaving us to wander on our own. Thank You for the Light of the World, Who brightens our way forward. Thank You for always being a trustworthy Source of direction and guidance. And thank You for being that Companion Who comforts and strengthens us for the journey You have for us. We are joy-filled pilgrims who sing our gratitude as we travel. Home is not so far away, and we see the glow of heaven just over the horizon. Following You in the beautiful Name of Jesus, amen.

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“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” – Isaiah 30:21

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” – Psalm 32:8

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” – Psalm 119:105

“If the Lord delights in a man’s way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.” – Psalm 37:23-24