Out of My Mind - Rev. J. Michael Wilkins

One of my favorite books is Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose. It’s an account of the famed Lewis and Clark expedition that meant so much in determining the size, shape and future of the United States.

When they began their journey in the early 1800s, no one knew much about the land between the Mississippi River and the Pacific Ocean. Though the explorers made extensive preparations, when the expedition left St. Louis, they went into uncharted territory, without any way of making contact with the people they left behind. It was to be a dangerous journey, full of unknown hazards.

Knowing the risks involved, here is William Clark’s response to Meriwether Lewis’ invitation to join him on that perilous adventure. “I will cheerfully join you and partake of the dangers, difficulties and fatigues . . . my friend, I do assure you that no man lives with him whom I would prefer to undertake such a trip . . . as yourself.”

It occurs to me that following Jesus Christ as his church also means entering into a journey filled with many “dangers, difficulties and fatigues.” When we follow the Lord he often leads us into uncharted territory which requires us to take great risks and face perilous challenges. The demands of the journey are often great, requiring much sacrifice and exertion on our part.

Our sole source of comfort on this remarkable journey is the one with whom we travel. There is no other person with whom I would undertake this greatest of all adventures than with my Lord, Savior, and friend, Jesus Christ.

As long as we stay close to him on our journey through prayer, Bible study, and worship, we will make incredible discoveries and have experiences too wonderful for words. The demands of following Jesus wherever he leads, whether for the individual disciple, or the church, are great, but the rewards of the journey are worth it all. I pray that each of us may be committed to undertake this greatest adventure of following Jesus, whatever the risks, hazards, challenges and uncertainties involved.

Your Pastor, Mike