Journey on, Again

[Dan R. Crawford]

Many have likened life to a journey.  I think it is rather a series of short journeys, phases of life, chapters in a larger story.  We depart and we return, and even though we can’t really go home again, we can go through home again, and when we do, we find those who celebrate with us, and encourage us to go again.  I had a favorite author, who disappointed me by later lifestyle choices, but once wrote profound words, “Everyone who returns from a long and difficult trip is looking for someone waiting for him at the station or the airport.  Everyone wants to tell his story and share his moments of pain and exhilaration with someone who stayed home, waiting for him to come back.” Part of my calling has been to equip travelers and send them out with encouragement, and assurance of support.  The other part has been to welcome them as they come through home again, needing help, healing, and renewed hope – to “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15).  It is a strange calling, one that requires, or at least attempts, to both stay at home for support, and to journey for identification, for it is difficult to lead where one has not himself been.  I did not choose this calling, but was chosen for it.  Looking back, I wouldn’t change it for the world.  Journey on again, fellow pilgrims!  Home awaits!