“But I will tell you this: I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which these Jews say is not the right way, and I believe everything that is taught in the Law of Moses and all that is written in the books of the prophets.” – Paul, speaking in defense of the Gospel, Acts 24:14

Week Two of my “Pilgrim in Progress” class is in the books, so this morning – like last week – I am offering a bit of an overview for this post.

My teaching ran more extemporaneous than usual, making the content not so easy to outline. But I can say the focus explored the idea that our entire life is – in a sense – a pilgrim path; our faith as both a journey and a destination.

We started by talking about the fact that, rather than “Christians”, the early disciples were known as “Followers of the Way.” I have always liked that moniker because it is not so much tied to doctrine or any kind of religious rule as to proximity and motion.

Proximity to Jesus; movement along “The Way” together. Jesus, of course, said “I am The Way.”

An open spirit:

We also talked about the critical importance of an open spirit. To be openspirited (which still flags as “not a real word” even though I prevailed over my publisher’s objections and used it in a book!) suggests a willingness to listen to the Holy Spirit and to be guided as we navigate the way.

DISCIPLESHIP is distinctly focused around a disciplined approach to faith, sitting at the feet of the master. But PILGRIMAGE suggests movement, seeking God, having a sense of urgency for the holy and understanding that we are on a journey.

I cannot emphasize that too much. This is a journey; and – like the epic adventures Rebekah and I take when we travel – spiritual engagement is an active learning experience.

If we are not learning and growing then we are not alive. If we think that we have already arrived then we most certainly have not and likely will not. This is the most important truth about being a pilgrim, the sense that we are in process.

I like the idea that rather than feeding us answers, Jesus is willing to be with us as we seek them. Jesus is famous for asking great questions. It’s more that Jesus is the answer than that he hands them out.

It’s more that Jesus is the answer than that he hands them out.

As always, it is a privilege and a joy to help facilitate such conversations with my sisters and brothers at church.

You make known to me the path of life;
    you will fill me with joy in your presence,
    with eternal pleasures at your right hand. (Psalm 16:11)

May Jesus be our guide – always – along the way – DEREK