Roy’s Ramblings…

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” is a common saying that originated from a Chinese proverb. The quotation is from chapter 64 of the Tao Te Ching ascribed to Laozi, although it is also erroneously ascribed to his contemporary Confucius. This saying teaches that even the longest and most difficult ventures have a starting point; something which begins with one first step. So, to bring this into the church setting … what is our first/next step?

In what journey, you ask? Well … any journey. It seems that the next big journey for us here at NUMC is FallFare (which at this email is 50 days away), but is it really? Maybe we have things that are happening before then – decisions to make – trips to take – relationships to patch – books to read – studies to perform – hobbies to enjoy – life to live. Each one of these is a special journey in and of itself and each one starts with a single step in the right direction.

I was asked, once upon a time, how to start a small group ministry in one of the churches I was serving; I said with prayer. I know it sounds trite, and a pat pastor answer … but I think we should always start with prayer asking God to bless our journey – any journey – all journeys. Even if we don’t get the answer we are looking for … it at least gives a moment to pause, to ponder, to reflect, to find divine inspiration for our first/next step. When an athlete is preparing for the big event – they practice … performing many repetitions to improve performance. We too practice – in our minds – in our spirits – and in our world to get ready to make that step. So friends, whatever race you are running – whatever journey you are taking – whatever is next in your life … don’t be scared of taking that step … Go with God and God’s blessing.

Peace, Love and Joy for us all – Pastor Roy