I believe every good map or set of directions has at least one characteristic in common: each uses an absolute directional rubric. We can call this a compass. Setting aside the distinction between “true north” and “magnetic north,” we can safely say that north is always north.
Recently I had the great honor and pleasure to see an architectural exhibit curated by a member of our congregation (she did an amazing job). I was unfamiliar with the location of the building, and some good friends told me it would be on my right as I drove by. Unfortunately, my helpful direction givers did not expect me to make an incorrect turn and come from an unexpected direction. Whoops. (Please tell me I’m not the only one who’s ever done this?) Because of my mistake, I passed several times but never saw the building on my right. I desperately needed a Google Maps person to sit next to me and hold my hand.
From this experience, and so many others, I am reminded how important it is to have an address, that is to say a destination, and directions relating to an unchanging rubric. Our destination is a right relationship with the living God and renewal in His image. Let me offer one unchanging, absolute directional rubric for your journey: The Lord Jesus Christ.
The world will come to see that the baby born in Bethlehem is the Light who will shine in the darkness and guide us in paths of peace. He will forgive sins. He will teach by words and example how to live in right relationship with God and one another. He will suffer the shame of crucifixion and the exultation of resurrection that we may be renewed in God’s image.
I cannot say with certainty that I would not have gotten lost on my way to the exhibit. In fact, it’s likely I would have made some mistake. But if I knew the building was on the south side of the road then I could have found my way back much more easily. We will likely still get confused in life, we’ll still get lost. When you’re lost, seek out the Lord Jesus Christ and align your life with His. When you do, you’ll be headed in the right direction.
Rev. Drew Haynes, Pastor of Campus Operations
