“Journey”
I hate this word.
It’s completely overused and because of that, the word itself has lost its meaning for me. My mom and I love to watch the Bachelor, the Bachelorette, and Survivor. On each of these shows on each episode they use the word “journey” to describe what they’re going through.
At launch back in October every one of us was given us a key with a word engraved on it. Each key has specifically been prayed over for each specific member of our squad.
My key said “Journey”.
When I was handed the key, and showed my mom we couldn’t help but laugh because of course I would get this word! I immediately knew it was meant for me because of the hatred I felt for it.
If I’m ever writing a blog or talking to someone about this trip I will try to think of any other word so that I don’t have to type or say the word “journey”. For four months I’ve not been able to figure out why I was given a key with a word that I literally can’t stand.
Then last night after bible study, it hit me. The message had nothing to do with what I was feeling, so it had to have been from the Lord.
I have a strong feeling about this word that I’ve carried from home into the race. And for a stupid reason. So, it got me thinking. Do I have any other thoughts or feelings that I’ve brought from home that are hindering me from whatever God has planned for me here? About certain types of people, or types of ministry, or certain countries?
Holding on to past judgements or hurts from people can affect how I see people now. If they remind me of someone I knew that I didn’t get along with, I will assume that I won’t get along with them. Holding on to past judgements of ministry opportunities can affect how I see ministry now. If ministry turns out to be something that I have done before, and I didn’t enjoy it, or it didn’t turn out well, I’m going to assume the same of ministry now.
I need to learn to let go of my preconceived notions of people and everything else around me, so I can truly enjoy what is happening now. What if I’ve conjured up this perception of someone on my squad that reminds me of someone from home and then completely shut them out and don’t get to know them? Then I’ve wasted 11 months of opportunities after opportunities to learn someone new that may be an asset to how my walk with the Lord progresses.
Setting aside my thoughts and surrendering my assumptions to God will open my heart up to love people and my circumstances no matter what I’ve experienced.
Romans 12 talks about love in action. Specifically verses 9-10, 16a, and 18. “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to ne another in love. Honor one another above yourselves…. Live in harmony with one another…. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
So I am surrendering my hatred for the word ‘journey’ and will wear my key as a reminder to love those I’m around and love where I am.
