A couple of things came to mind as I recently waited in my car for a very long train to pass by. First, I thought fondly of my mother with a smile and a little laugh. She was an extraordinary woman of patience and grace – until she had to stop and wait for a train. I’m not sure why that particular situation bothered her so much, but I can clearly hear her annoyed voice ask, “How long is this train?!”
After reminiscing about Mom and the many trains we waited on, I gave more consideration to this specific train, the track, and the direction the train was headed. The train was formed by numerous cars, each filled with its own contents yet connected to one another. Its speed was neither fast nor slow—just steady. The track, strong and sometimes winding, reliably guided the train to its next destination. And though the train likely made many stops, and was maybe even derailed at times, it continued with confidence on its path forward. This image encouraged me. My prayer was to find the hope and strength to stay on the right track even if I couldn’t see too far ahead, and I was comforted by the thought of the love and support of those who are connected to me and share in this journey. This everyday scene became a reminder to prayerfully continue moving forward in faith, trusting the guidance of the track—of my path—even though I am unsure of the next stop.
As we contemplate our winding journeys of faith, there is plenty of ‘track’ behind us to learn from and to cherish, and there is more unseen ‘track’ that awaits us. Most late nights I hear a train in the distance. The sound of it traveling on the guiding track is now soothing to me and serves as a reminder. I will guide you along the best pathway of your life. I will advise you and watch over you. (Psalm 32:8) As we do our best to follow our paths in trust, let us ask the Lord to continue to accompany us, to be our strong guiding track, and to help us move forward in faith even when we cannot see what is ahead.
Journeying to Grace 