Wisdom from an Old Traveler
As I get older and am aware that my trips around the sun are not only limited in number, but nearing their designated number, I reflect on some thoughts to pass on. For me, my greatest resource for wisdom comes from the Bible, so I share a verse from the prophet Jeremiah 6:16,
“Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, you will find rest for your souls.”
We live in a time of weariness, confusion, senseless behaviors, and fear. The news repeats daily things once thought unspeakable, unheard-of and that make no sense. Hurt and suffering, selfishness and sorrows seem to haunt our existence. How do we find our way? How shall we find purpose, perspective and peace?
A few wise teachings come from the prophet.
1. Stand. That means stop. Rest a moment. Catch your breath. We need times to stand still. That’s why our Creator told us to rest from our work one day in 7.
2. Look. Open your eyes as to walk is around you. Look all around. Look into the sky, look at the clouds, stars. Look down, your feet are amazing gifts, marvelously crafted to give you balance, transportation that you may be mobile. Look to the side, what do you see? Movement in the grass, and familiar face, a butterfly flapping its wings.
3. Ask for the old way. Ask, enquire, and learn from those around you. Ask the older persons where they have been? What have they seen? What would they change and what would they begin if they could? Ask. Asking implies humility and a heart that is is still being formed and shaped. It is there, in the heart we find the secret of who we are. Guard it carefully.
4. The good way. Not the newest way. But learn what has been tested through time and passed on from generation to generation with permanent value and unquestionable success. The old paths will often clarify the foolish and useless schemes that take a terrible toll on those who have taken that course.
Ask for the good way. Not the easy way. Not the popular way or the quickest way. Don’t be afraid of the good way and the effort it takes.
5. Walk in it. Follow that path. Study its course. Know it’s up and downs, its turns and bends.
The best path said the psalmist,” thy word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
6. Promise. There is a promise the old prophets has received and would pass on, “you will find rest for your souls.”
That’s what we seek in our hectic, uncertain, scary world. Rest, peace for our troubled soul. It is there for you. This is what God says. Jesus said, “come unto me all of you who are weary and heavy laden and I will give rest to your souls”. From traveler to another on this road of life, take the road that leads to life. Spend your time there. Heed the wisdom of the old travelers who know all about rest for the soul. Happy travels. Thanks for listening.