Life is a journey. This journey takes us down some interesting paths. Along the journey, there are stops that we make. Also along the way, there are pitfalls and minefields that we shall encounter. Christians are on a journey, We are just passing through on our way to an eternal city. The journey is not always easy. There will be times when we will grow weak and weary, and sometimes it will be hard to go on. That is why we need strength for the journey.

OBSTACLES ALONG THE WAY

In ancient times, travelers always had to be on their guard. As they traveled on the barran roads, they always had to be watchful for robbers. The robbers would jump out from the shadows and pounce on the travelers. As we travel along in the journey, we must be watchful for enemies that would jump out of the shadows.

We must be watchful for the devil. He jumps out ready to tear Christians to pieces. Scripture clearly warns us to be wary of him. "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring loin looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of suffering."(1 Peter 5:8,9) The devil strikes at all Christians along the way. He wants to take our eyes off of the cross, and take from us the hope of glory.

The world will attack as well. The world will attack the faith and hope of Christians. It will try to entice and lure Christians away from the path that leads to Christ. It will instead, try to lead Christians down the path to sins. Some have chosen the paths that the world offers. As a result, they have walked away from the faith.

Another enemy that lays in wait is the flesh. The struggles of the flesh will make the journey difficult. The struggles with the flesh sometimes take our eyes off of the cross. These struggles can cause us to become weak and weary. They can cause us to lose faith and trust in God. With all of these obstacles, we need strength for the journey.

GOD GIVES STRENGTH FOR THE JOURNEY

God gives us strength to make the journey. He will help us to make it to the final goal. He has given us His Word to guide us, so that we will not get lost. He has given us His Son, Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, He has overcome the enemies of our faith. He gives of Himself in Holy Communion.Here, He feeds us, and refreshes us. In this meal, He is present to forgive us, renew us, and to send us on the journey. What He gives us is true medicine for the soul, and gives us strength for the journey.

THE STRENGTH TO GO ON

The journey through life will not always be easy. As we make our way through, we shall encouter obstacles along the way. There will be situations that will test our faith. As long as we hold on to God's hand, we can make it through. The Holy Spirit guides us along the way. He will keep us on the path that leads to Christ. As we make the journey, God will be present and will sustain us. He will give us strength for the journey.

Thank you Michael