John 14:1-3
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:1-3 (NIV)
I’m traveling this summer. June finds me in Lincoln, NE for two weeks. In July I’ll be on an Alaska cruise for 10 days. Each trip requires different but similar preparation.
The one in June is me driving my car from Arizona to Lincoln and staying at an AirBNB. So I bring myself and things I need: shorts, my pickleball equipment, and lots of books. Of course, I also have to decide my route. North and east? Or east then north? Book hotels first or play it by ear?
There are two big reasons I’m going to Lincoln. My dad’s funeral on Saturday followed by my grandchild’s reveal party on Sunday. (It’s a girl!)
My dad died in March. He had dementia for years so his actual passing wasn’t as ‘difficult’ as I imagined. But the funeral was emotional. On the other side is the excitement of being a first time grandma! Many “big” feelings that weekend. Big feelings can be exhausting and overwhelming.
The one is July is more “vacation” like but similar questions. What do I pack? From what I’ve heard, it’s all about the layers. I also need to decide which ‘route’ - do I fly (probably) or take the train? Even though my cruise is a vacation, it’ll be just as exhausting in a different way. Lots of walking along with lots of eating (then more walking - or sitting).
How very different those trips will be from what Jesus promises in this verse! No worries about packing the “right” clothes. Or how exhausting the feelings. Jesus has prepared a place for me (and you!) What’s more Jesus will come back for us so no worries about going north than east (or east then north). Or booking a hotel room. No getting lost or confused along the way. Jesus will come back to take us to the room prepared for us. Jesus will be by our side - then and always.
Questions for Reflection:
- What can I do to bring Jesus with me when I travel?
- How can I remind myself of Jesus always with me?
- Where can I be a reminder of Jesus always with others?
Prayer:
Lord,
Whether my travels take me to far flung places or just around town, please help me remember Jesus always with me and help me be a reminder of Jesus always with others. Amen.
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