paths

"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Paths are throughout our lives. I recall many times following a path through densely wooded areas - on my Grandfather's 40 acres, on hiking trails through the mountains or around lakes, on hunting trips, etc. A well traveled path provides ease, security, direction. When off the path we are prone to wander if we are not sure of our destination. Does God give us a destination, but not always the easy path to trod? And if we follow God's direction even when it leads off the well trodden path will we take the extra effort to leave a trail for others to follow?

I am reminded today of God's faithfulness. In 2 Timothy 4:18 the apostle Paul writes: "The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen"

A song that comes to mind: "I've wandered far away from God, now I'm coming home. The paths of sin, too long I've trod, Lord, I'm coming home. Coming home, coming home, nevermore to roam. Open wide thine arms of love, Lord, I'm coming home." A scripture reference that accompanies this song is from Luke 15:18 when the prodigal son returns home to his father. What an awesome picture of God's grace and mercy.