Dear Members and Friends of IBCZ,
Have you ever been on a “trust walk?” These were popular group activities when I was young, especially at youth camps and other youth activities. It is quite simple. One person is blindfolded so they cannot see anything, and then they have to walk throughout a room or building if indoors, or through fields, along paths, or around trees if outdoors.
How can they do this safely? They have the help of a partner who is not blindfolded. They can see clearly, and they lead the blindfolded person, either by the arm, the hand, or just with verbal instructions. Of course, the seeing person can play a trick on their partner and have them walk into a wall, but that is why it is called a “trust walk.;” you have to trust the person leading you.
On our walk through life, we encounter much bigger challenges than walking into a wall, such as: Where can we find meaning in life? What values and morals should we live by? How can we deal with suffering and disappointment? What happens to us after we die?
Fortunately, we do not have to stumble in the dark searching for answers to life’s big questions, for God has illuminated our way. Last Sunday we considered the parable of a farmer casting seeds upon different kinds of soils. We saw that if we are to be good soil, we must listen to God’s word receptively, i.e., with humility, eagerness, and obedience. As we do, our lives are fruitful.
Ps. 119:105 sheds further light on this. It reads, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Reading God’s Word is like turning a light on in a dark room; it enables us to see clearly and respond appropriately. In His Word, God has revealed the truth about Himself, so we can know what God is like. He has revealed the truth about how we can live in relationship with Him now and forever – by trusting in Jesus Christ. And He has revealed how we should live – what values, morals, and principles should guide our living.
Furthermore, God has revealed that He is trustworthy. God doesn’t want us to stumble through life, living in fear and making poor choices. He has given us His Word to teach us, guide us, and encourage us. As we follow His instructions, we live lives that are meaningful and fruitful. Let’s take full advantage of the Gift of His Word!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Bob