Monday, June 8, 2020

From Strength to Strength...Thy Word is a Lamp Unto My Feet

Dear Friends,

As the world…and these United States…begin to open up from Covid 19, it becomes more and more apparent that “…(we’ve) not passed this way before.”  (Joshua 3:4)
Experts are at odds regarding the order of lifting restrictions, the speed with which to proceed…even the paths to be taken.  Not only are leaders and caretakers exhausted from overwork and decision making, but now they are overwhelmed facing a very unknown and uncertain future.  If this is you please take a moment to be reminded of a truth:

Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness.”  Psalm 112:4
Picture
​Pictured here are a pair of well-worn sandals, replicates of those that could have been worn by Jesus during His sojourn on earth.  The Scriptures reveal that He and His followers walked literally thousands of miles during those three (or so) years: from Nazareth to the wilderness of Judea; from Jerusalem to Tyre and Sidon; from upper Galilee and possibly even Hermon (the Transfiguration) to Bethany…and back again to Jerusalem – multiple times.  Even as an Infant His earthly father would have taken the little family pretty much on foot from Bethlehem to Egypt and then returned with them to Nazareth.  
Putting all this in perspective is mind boggling …and sitting with it brings other Scriptures more into focus.  What is seldom thought of in this centering process is the importance foot coverings would have had.  And…what is pretty much overlooked is their “evolution” according to need.  Did you know that ancient sandals (more like moccasins) dating backward from David to Moses to Abraham and beyond, incorporated a small spout type of receptacle in the toe area to hold oil and a small wick?  They not only provided protection but also provision to see the next step.  Literally, only the next step on the path was lighted. 

Friends, be assured that our Father has given a lamp to light our next steps just as He ordered the footsteps of Jesus.  Walk circumspectly with His Word and the Holy Spirit during these dark times as you seek the truth and make decisions…for yourselves, those you love, and those you are caring for.
 And remember knowing only the next step may be all you need. 

“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.”  Psalm 119:105
Picture