There is a significant difference between aimless wandering and walking with purpose. Each is good in the right context. The inability to do either in Jesus’ day created unrelieved dependency and inescapable vulnerability. Healing those who could not walk provided amplified lives.

Consider all the Bible verses related to walking, running, the path, the road, and the highway. I have been highlighting these verses in blue in each of the Bible translations I have read for the last several years. The Bible talks about our purpose or mission as a path and a pilgrimage.

A friend of mine who led wilderness adventures for years calls the journey of discipleship an expedition. She talks about what we think we need to take on such an adventure versus what is actually essential. Here in this beautiful retreat center in Washington near the Canadian border, there are miles of breathtaking trails. Breathtaking is both literal and figurative in this case.

Someone brought two sets of hiking shoes. One set is waterproof. As you probably know, it rains a lot up here. The other set of hiking shoes rises above the ankle to provide support. Since a mountain lion has been spotted on the trail this particular hiker enjoys so much, neither pair of hiking shoes is necessary. They merely add weight and bulk to my, his, baggage.

The occasion for today’s text is a question from John the Baptist after he had been arrested.

When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah,
he sent his disciples to ask him,
“Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”
verses 2 and 3

Instead of a philosophical discussion or a theological treatise, Jesus responded with living proof in the lives of others. John had preached about the necessity of life change. Jesus preached (Luke 4:14-27) about his mission of good news demonstrated in part by healing grace. What John and Jesus had declared was coming true in an ever-spreading arc of great good news.

People who lived without purpose and possibility found both in the healing hands of Jesus.

What’s your purpose? What are your opportunities?

By God’s grace, in his strength, following his leadership, your possibilities are more abundant than you can imagine. You can live a life worth highlighting. Those highlights will show others the better way. You will lead adventures and open pathways. You might even face down a mountain lion. Take a giant can of bear spray just in case.

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I will lean into today’s adventures as Jesus leads the way.

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