Devotions

Advent: Day Eleven

So, Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to David’s house and line.  He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to marry him and was expecting a child.  While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born.  Luke 2:4-6

. A pilgrimage.  Have you ever went on a pilgrimage.  Leaving behind the familiar life that you know and venturing into the unknown??  Having to hold onto God as your provider!  This makes me think of missionary life.  Joseph and Mary were called on a pilgrimage.  They left behind what they knew and went on a venture, trusting God every step of the way.  Psalm 84:5 says, “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.”  This was not an easy task to travel during pregnancy.  Mary needed God’s strength to get through the unknown of heading to Bethlehem.

As Christ-followers, we must set our hearts on pilgrimage.  We get comfortable with where our lives are at.  We want things just so.  We cling to our routine.  We love our little home.  Resisting the pilgrimage will never satisfy.  When we resist God’s calling to follow Him, we develop discontentment.  We are in disobedience to Him.  We will never find peace in disobedience.  Saying yes to God and pilgrimage can be frightening.  However, it is a path to true fulfillment.

How are you going to handle a pilgrimage?  Are you going to play it safe and stay put, or are you going to be obedient and walk in the unknown, holding onto the promises of God?  Are you willing to step out in faith?

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for inviting us to follow you on this pilgrimage.  I pray that we will choose to obey you and be obedient to you. Please give us strength and courage.

In Jesus Name

Amen