It seems that we rarely need to ask the way to strange places these days because of modern technology. In earlier times the compass was used. Often guides for spirituality are suggested too.
Fr Chris comments in the #FollowTheStar series on the word ‘Guide’
But does this help us as much as we think? I ask this because these all need us to be able and aware of how to use technology, or in the case of the compass the ability to read a map. They all enable the user to find the way if they already know how to do so.
I don’t think that to be the case in our relationship with Jesus Christ. I don’t think that we need to know how to “work” him, how to use the correct program or app to get our desired outcome.
I don’t dispute that we all need a sense of direction, a sense of purpose in life – as the old saying goes “if we don’t know where we are going, how will we know when we get there?”! But, we can so often complicate the issue. I often reflect on the complications which we addicts in recovery put onto our recovery – in my case I avoid alcohol, which is simple and straightforward – but I have heard many addicts struggle with what ifs – what if I need to drink a toast, what if I need to celebrate a birthday and so on. Just avoid alcohol and say no is the simple answer.
So it is I feel with faith and direction. Bishop Nigel some years ago reminded us of the need to “look to Jesus as the pioneer and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 7:1).
We don’t need to complicate our faith, and see it a intricate and complicated.
Lets keep it simple looking to Jesus Christ and passing on his faith, hope and love. I used to play squash (believe it or not!) and one thing I was always being told was to keep my eye on the ball – so it is with our Christian Faith we need to keep our eye on Jesus.
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