How comfortable we find our feet as they trod the familiar paths of our days.
Yes, the ground beneath may take various forms-rocky, slippery, solid…but we become accustomed to adapting to the terrain. We mark invisible footprints in the familiar places: Quick light steps across the neighboring yard in anticipation of playful moments with friends. Slow, lazy steps marking a moment of neighborly checking in. Quick steps down the driveway in the chill of winter; resembling a runner in a sprint with the mailbox as the finish line. Wet slippery feet crushing blades of grass following a dip in the pool.
Our routine moments define the rhythm of our steps. We become creatures of habit. We grow accustomed to the surrounding landscape. But, with little warning, we are transported to a new one. We are confronted with the reality that we are always visiting.
As I write this post, I am mindful that in two days, our family will bid farewell to our beloved neighbors. People with whom we have shared life for twenty years. Together, we have shared much: new life, birthdays, milestones, overnights, providing refuge for each other’s families. We once made an unwritten promise that neither of us would move.
But, because we are all followers of Christ, we are aware that God’s purposes for His children supersede our own expectations. I am reminded that, in Christ, life is about visiting; wherever we are placed. Maybe, our visits come in the form of brief interactions during mundane moments of our days. Perhaps, our visits allow for more investment such as sharing life in a workplace. And other times, we are blessed by longer and more in-depth visits as we live into deeper relationship. Regardless, our steps on this earth are, in reality, light. Our footprints are not set in stone.
So, in our sadness, we embrace God’s goodness.“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.” Proverbs 16:9.
May we recognize the Holy in the midst of times of transition; knowing God’s hand is moving powerfully no matter how brief the visit.
This post is written for the Five Minute Friday Writing Community. Come join us! http://katemotaung.com/five-minute-friday/ New website info coming!
exploring sacred connections with God and each otherr
The Lord establishes our steps….yes! I needed this reminder friend. Beautiful post! Blessed to be your neighbor at FMF this week.
Thanks Tara. I know you’ve mentioned having to say good-bye to people recently.
This is hauntingly lovely, Stephanie. Almost unbearably so, because from time to time I feel like a visitor in my own world, one whose stay is soon to end…and this place will know me no longer.
And the verse from Proverbs is perfect. Great job.
Andrew, I appreciate your words. Yes, your stay is coming to and end but we would all do well to remember that our days are not guaranteed. This place will not be witness to your body but your imprint will remain.
Goodbyes are hard, but it is important to remember we are visitors and to let God direct our steps. Visiting from #9.
“…but the Lord establishes their steps.” Amen. Love your post today, friend. And sending love to your neighbors on their journey.
Tears came unexpectedly as I read your post, for reasons I find hard to identify, much more articulate. I am reminded of the truth in the lyrics from an old song, “This world is not my home. I’m just a passing through …” and long for this line to be typify how I live, “I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.”
I am familiar with that song. What a great connection!