I was asked recently to write a short credal statement for a new members class. Surprisingly, I thought about the metaphors and analogies that “the road” generates. Perhaps that’s because I have appreciated what this Lenten theme has generated in me. In Cleo Wade’s book, “What the Road Says”, and in the incredible pieces that the woman’s leadership has written, my Lenten journey has gone in a wide array of directions, with roads leading me to new insights and with “The Road” shining the light of love upon me. For the class, we were asked to describe what we believe about God, Jesus, the Spirit, and the Church.
God is like a road providing numerous paths to travel. God, at times, feels like the journey is long and arduous, and other times, surprising and full of adventure. God, as creator and waymaker, leads us in many directions, and on this journey of life, we find nourishment, guidance, clarity, and love. God is like a road in that the journey never ends, and there is always freedom and expansive territory for exploration. God is like the road in that he gives us the Word and the map we travel by. I am mindful of the psalmist who writes; Thy word is a lamp onto my feet and a light unto my path.
Jesus is like the road, Thomas asks him, How can we know the way? Jesus responds with; I am the way, the word he uses is “hadue,” which means road or journey. Jesus shows us the way to go, and he beckons us to travel, journey, and go to new places. These places require a change in direction and a new roadmap to travel. I believe Jesus is saying I am the way to discovering light, love, acceptance, and appreciation for the mountaintops and the dark valleys.
One of my favorite stories is the road to Emaus. “They said to one another, “Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the Scriptures to us.” The spirit is the one who guides us, who changes our course, who reveals new places and opportunities. The Spirit is our inner GPS, helping us listen and follow as we seek to travel in the right direction. The spirit helps us to feel our hearts burning and helps our hearts to respond, which generates more love.
The church is like a road; it is a starting place for the journey. In the waters of baptism, surrounded by a community of faith, we find traveling companions wherever the road takes us. The church is a haven of safety when the road is dangerous, and it is a beacon of hope when one feels like they have lost their way.
I listened recently to this Celtic acapella singing group.
They spoke to my soul as they reminded me of the road that rises to meet me. My hope is that the road rises to meet you as God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the Church meet you, and you experience the light of love shining upon you, showing the way.
Shared by Reverend Kirsty Depree
One response to “The Road”
Your interpretation on the road and a person’s journey is well done. You wove all this together beautifully! And the music special for not only St. Patrick’s Day but for every day ahead. Thank you.