Travel Mantras

Even if many of us have elected to travel less and only to relatively safe places, we still know and remember the comical phrases heard on long trips. Say a few with me, "How much farther?" "Where are we?" "I'm hungry!" Don't forget the one that I was famous for when I was young, "I have to use the potty!" Of course, we also have to include, "Are we there yet?" At this last full day of Advent, it is a very good question. Although Advent isn't usually viewed as a "journey" like Lent often is, I actually think that Advent lends itself better to that imagery. If we picture ourselves like shepherds walking towards a discovery of good news, this could bring a rich spiritual insight. What if we are wondering how we will recognize the little Christ among the people? How will we share and spread the news of Christ's arrival? We can also think about what our walk towards Christ looks like--are we focused on finding him, or other ways to "pass the time?" Paul gives us a good travel mantra, "Let us live honorably as in the day."

Romans 13:11-14

Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; let us live honorably as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

Christ Jesus, I am seeking you. I am searching for you. Help me to find you in others. Help me to show others that you are coming and here in this world. Let my walk with you show that I follow you. Let me live honorably to your glory. Shine your light in your people! Be with all that I name today... In the Name of the One who is and who was and who is to come. Amen.