Time of Preparation
Begin by taking inventory of your surroundings. Are things in your vicinity conducive to a time of personal worship? Are there any changes or adjustments (turning off tech, making yourself comfortable) you need to make before you begin?
When you are ready, take some time to sit in silence and prepare your heart for worship. Ask God to clear away any distractions that might keep you from being truly present in this moment.
Commission
In this final movement, we are encouraged and equipped for the work God would have us do.
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
—3 John 1:4 (NIV)
Over the past year Sharon and I have been exploring the ancient practice of pilgrimage, specifically the walking pilgrimages of medieval times. This came upon the discover that one of the most famous pilgrimage paths, the Fife Pilgrim Way, is basically in our backyard. What Sharon has learned about this path and the discipline of pilgrimage will form the basis of her next novel.
Walking is such a simple yet powerful spiritual metaphor. The Christian experience is often described as a journey, and becoming a disciple of Jesus carries with it the very real and historical image of walking alongside him. The ancient benediction, “may you be covered in the dust of your rabbi” speaks of the closeness of this journey, one in which we follow closely behind the one who is teaching us and showing us the way.
But the truly striking thing about the Christian life is not just that we walk with Jesus, but that Jesus also walks with us. He enjoys our company. He wants to be part of our day-to-day life. When we accept the invitation to walk with him, he is not blazing a path ahead and only occasionally looking back to see if we’re keeping up. He is walking beside us. He’s there when we stay on the path, he’s there when we stumble. He’s by our side even when the way is difficult. He doesn’t leave our side. Yes, we may wander…but he never does.
“Walk with me” are beautiful words to hear. They are also beautiful words to offer.
SONG OF COMMISSION: Jesus I Will Walk With You (lyrics here)