This isn’t home.
As a follower of Jesus, that’s the eternal perspective that helps us make sense of an otherwise senseless world. We’re not home yet.
C.S. Lewis said we’re rebels in enemy-held territory. We may know the ultimate result of the war, but knowing makes the battle no less pleasant. And while we’re here, we’re called to be part of the insurrection. We can’t just sit around and wait for the end.
This reality of being a stranger in a strange land creates an odd tension, one I feel every time we take off on a long bike adventure. On one hand there’s a sense of mission and purpose, knowing you’re there for a reason even when the reason isn’t entirely clear. On the other hand, it’s difficult because everything’s harder and more unfamiliar on the road. It’s just not home.
The temptation is to focus on the finish line, just find a way to get to the end so you can return home. But then you miss the whole purpose of the journey. The trick is to take advantage of each moment because there’s something better on the horizon.
I confess I’m not entirely certain how to do that.
Today we commemorate Jesus’ journey to the cross. He knew in those agonizing hours the perfect balance of present pain and promised glory. He endured, for you and me, because He knew He wasn’t home yet.
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The kids at Project Rescue’s Home of Hope aren’t home yet, either. The day will come when we’ll get to laugh with them and celebrate the end of slavery and fear. But that day’s not yet.
So for now the amazing circle around FRONT RANGE FREEDOM TOUR ‘14 does our part to help this handful of kids can live in freedom, safety, and love. We’re a team of folks having fun doing what we can, where we are, with what we have. Some ride bikes, some drive SAG vehicles, some encourage or support us financially and in lots of other ways. We’re all together on a journey of hope—until we get home.
I guess, when you say it like that, maybe it’s not all that complicated.
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