As I sat near my gate early this morning, awaiting a flight for a business trip, I lamented on past travel experiences. My mind wandered to various flights and adventures. Destinations… those that are physical and those that are emotional and spiritual. Some for pleasure, some for business. Some to visit family, others to take care of personal business. Some full of anticipation and excitement— a long awaited vacation, a trip to reunite and enjoy time with special people. Some full of sadness and perhaps even dread — some to lay to rest a loved one, maybe even the depression that comes when traveling home and back to the real world.
I thought of the solo flights and those with the loves of my life. I reflected on the conversations, both the hard ones and the dream-filled fanciful ones had in terminals, chatting about what the trip might hold, the challenges that might be faced, and the fun or sadness that was about to unfold. Regardless of the purpose or outcome, the journey is always full of lessons, memories, challenges and adventure.
Enjoying the potpourri of memories and emotions, my time came to board. As I approached the gate, a familiar face greeted me with an infectious broad smile.
“Good morning!”
”Good morning! Are you related to Jonny?”
”I’m Jonny!”
”Yes, I recognized you! Jonny, it’s Mr. King.”
”Mr. King!!!”
Shared smiles turned into an impromptu hug.
”He’s my former student!” I shared with the other agents at the gate. “And, he’s one of my favorites.”
”He’s one of ours, too!”
As I walked to the plane, I was flooded with peace and happiness, and an abundance of thankfulness. The journey is meant to be shared and I was thankful for the reminder in my interaction with Jonny. We are blessed to share our journey with those around us… whether the journey is joyous or heavy.
With each step, my mind filled with promises from His word…
Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God…”
Matthew 28:20: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Jesus’ promise).
Genesis 28:15: “Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go…”.
Joshua 1:9: “…Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”.
Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…”.
He is ever present, ever with us — in the adventure, in the turmoil… on the journey AND preparing the destination.
My Friend, wherever this journey finds you, know that you are not alone. I’m thankful that YOU are on this journey with me. You are loved. And, when this journey ends, the destination… oh, that destination… is secure if only we believe in and follow Him who cleanses us “white as snow”.
Fly, my Friend… fly.