STREETS of FRANCE

Walking down the back streets of France she closed her eyes after an incredible night of ministry. She was headed back to her temporary home. And by temporary I mean temporary she was only staying in the apartment for two weeks before heading off to a new city. This crazy thing called missions has her moving a lot and living in many different types of places. As she headed home that night by tram she made it to the street around 1:00 in the morning and began her 10 minute walk home. Closing her eyes she counted each step that she took 1 2 3 4 5 6 ....... 17 18 19 20 opening her eyes she decided to try again but this time make it to 25. Each time she reached a new number she tried to get higher until she reached the 50's. Reflecting as she walked she realized something very interesting. When she only took a few steps with her eyes closed she could take them quickly and with confidence, but the more steps she took the slower and more unsure they became. To trust that things were going to be okay, to trust each step without being able to see it was a test of faith. Faith "to be sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."(Heb11:1) How can a person walk confidently if they cannot see what is in front of them. These streets represented her life and she knew she had two options. Walk with her eyes open analyzing everything and being sure of what was to come. Planning each step and being sure of the future and what it holds. To have this life she would not need anyone else around. With her eyes open she was capable of walking on her own not needing to trust anyone else. Her other choice walk the road with her eyes closed. To do this would be very difficult alone. She would need a guide someone who she could trust. She would be unable to see the things coming in her future unless he told her. She would be limited to only seeing and knowing the things the guide revealed to her. This way of walking to most would seem more dangerous and more crazy, but this is the way she choose. To trust her guide the one who made this streets who knows each curve, each danger. The one who knows the end destination and will guide her safely there. Walking with her eyes closed she learned a new facet of what trust entails. It is not easy to walk in this way. She was a very independent person who liked having control, but she realized the best way of walking was not in her own wisdom or strength, but with the wisdom of her Guide. So who is this person and who is this guide? This person grew up in a little town never planning to stray far, but now with her guide leading her has traveled to many lands. This wise guide God has proven faithful in each step that she has taken. Always revealing to her and showing her the things to come. Never demanding from her trust but instead waiting patiently for her hand to reach out and take his already extended hand. Completely deserving of all of her trust each day she learns how to live out in faith. Each day learning more about her guide and the immense love that he has for her.