A fork in the journey
On a recent nature walk, the “little man” (grandson) and I spied this tree. Standing tall and strong, this powerful oak didn’t seem deterred that its trunk separated in early life. Likely, when a sprout, the tree experienced a fork in the journey.
Sometimes we experience forks in our journeys–times when we must make choices. These decisions can be life changing.
Three of the four Gospels include the Parable of the Young Rich Man. His interaction with Jesus is described in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The young man asked Jesus:
“Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Luke 18:18)
Jesus responded by reminding the young man of knowing and abiding by the commandments. The man answered he had followed the commandments since he was a boy.
One more thing
But Jesus required more…
“You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” (Luke 18:22)
The man became sad, for the scripture tells us he had great wealth. He made the choice to turn away from Jesus. The disciples questioned, “Who can be saved?”
Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” (Luke 18:27)
Our journey requires sacrifice
Sometimes what Jesus requires of us is to give up the thing that separates us the most from Him. That doesn’t mean He expects us to live in poverty, work in a job that we hate, or be a doormat for overly critical people.
What separates us from a close relationship with our Savior?
For me, it was not wealth–it was my obsession with being in control. Raised in a patriarchal, authoritarian home environment, my rebellious need was to be in control of my relationships. God brought me to my knees before I learned the necessity of submission to Him. When presented with a fork in the journey, I chose my Savior’s love.
I had to change to save my marriage, develop loving relationships, and create healthy family dynamics. When I submitted my rebellious spirit to God, He helped me turn away from my controlling personality and develop patient, loving, and kind behaviors.
A fork in the journey
We all face those critical moments when we must make decisions that affect ourselves and our loved ones. I pray we all have made the decision to follow Jesus. Only He provides the gift of salvation and it’s our decision whether we accept that gift. Scripture tells us how to receive the gift of salvation:
If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9)
Are you facing a fork in the road, a major decision, or even one not so major, but one that is hard to choose which is the best direction for you and your family? Please let me know if I may pray for you.
And remember . . . our loving Father is always available to listen to our questions and offer guidance.
Katherine, thanks for sharing this reminder to make right choices based on God’s Word. God even gives us the right answer in Deuteronomy 30:19, choose life. Sadly so many don’t, but choose to go their own way.
Barbara thank you for sharing Deu 30:19: This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death. Now choose life that you and your children may live.
Our choices make the difference between life with our Lord or traveling the path alone. We are so blessed that He is filled with grace, mercy, and love. I pray we can be good examples for our children and young adults, to guide them toward making the right choice.
This reminds me of Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken.” Blessings on your week, Katherine.
Yes, I hadn’t thought of that, but I agree, Diana. Thank you.
I can totally relate to the control thing. I’m learning, though, the older I get, to let go and let God.
It’s been a long journey for me, Priscilla, to give up control and submit to God. I’m so thankful for His mercy and grace. He loves us! Thank you for sharing.
Every day can be viewed as a fork in the road. Will we make the right decision to follow God with our heart, mind, and actions and become more like Him?
I agree, Candyce. And so often, I make poor choices. I’m so grateful our God is with us and His forgiveness and patience allow me to try again and do better. We are blessed by His love and mercy. Wishing you joy and sunshine!
Nice post, Katherine. As Frost so beautifully said, sometimes choosing the less traveled fork makes all the difference. Another sad note: the rich, young man was one of the few who encountered Jesus and went away sadder for the experience.
The road less traveled is comparable to the “narrow gate,” I think. It isn’t the most popular choice, but if we are on the same pathway as our Lord, the road less traveled will get us safety to our destination–eternity with our Savior. Thank you for stopping by my blog and sharing, Tim. May God continue to bless your writing ministry in service to Him.
I wonder what would have happened if the man had started selling his stuff. Would Jesus have let him sell it all? I’m sure he would have found life, not just after he died, but here with joy and peace. May we choose life with Christ over all else.
I agree with your premise, Debbie. I think Jesus would have noted the man’s choice, recognized His intentions, and blessed Him with salvation, while not requiring him to live in poverty. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We are blessed with a loving and compassionate Savior.
A fork in the road can determine a journey of hope or a journey of despair. I pray we all choose to walk with God. Have a blessed week! 🙂
I join you in that prayer, Melissa. Wishing you joy and blessings this week.
Great message Katherine. I’ve learned that following a fork in the road can take us to amazing and unexpected places. God knows what is best for us.