This Sunday, we launch a new preaching series entitled, “Come Expecting.” During this three-week series, we will highlight Westminster’s Ministry of Spiritual Practice along with reflections from those who have walked the Camino de Santiago. We will hear that intentionally listening to the whispers of the Holy Spirit can open the door to the Spirit speaking and acting through us. We will also learn that sore feet, hard beds, scarcity of food and creature comforts all contributed to a level of insight into the presence of God for those who have braved the Camino. You see, being a disciple of Jesus is a pilgrimage; a journey that increasingly realizes the love and companionship of The Savior. And on this journey, we realize that God’s faithfulness is unchanging. The saints, martyrs, and prophets of old have experienced every possible hardship. And as our pilgrimage deepens, we confidently echo the words of Saint Paul:
“And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,
neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.
No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed,
nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)
Pilgrims who make progress know that “Your life is a journey you must travel with a deep consciousness of God.” (1 Peter 1:18) And don’t be surprised when your “deep consciousness of God” increasingly fills your day with moments of gratitude for previously invisible blessings. Similarly, don’t be surprised if you become the holder of Godly confidence, especially on those days when discouragement lurks.
Life is a pilgrimage. Some walk it with eyes wide open; others are satisfied to squint. May God’s irresistible grace make us into pilgrims who are making progress, evidenced by love of God; love of self; and an ever-deepening love of neighbor.
Pastor Steve Schaick
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