“The only hope we have is in Christ Jesus. The only one to help us in this world of turmoil. Though Satan’s foes oppress and our hearts is stressed. But we have this hope, and it’s in Jesus.” (Mahaila Jackson, 1961)
A group of scouts was taken into a large forest in the middle of the night on a special exercise. The scout leader, equipped with a bright lantern in hand, led the boys into the middle of the dense forest. One curious scout said, “I thought we were going camping.” The scout leader, smiling, almost at the point where you could tell he was holding back a laugh, said, “You are right, the troop is going camping. I’m going back and drive to the campsite.” Noticing the puzzling look on the faces of the whole group, the scout leader continued, saying, “The campground is prepared for you. Each of you will have your own comfortable space there, all prepared, and there will be so much food that you will think you are at a holiday banquet. But first, you have to make your way to the other side of the forest. There will be no turning back, for you will be worse off than going forward, regardless of what you encounter.” He goes on to say, “You will have to depend on one particular bright star, shining in the sky, to get to your destination.” After pointing to the star, he says, “I will meet you there.”
The boys take off, walking slowly and carefully. There were many obstacles in their way, and they quickly learned as they traveled that if they took their eyes off the light provided by the star too long, one could fall and be hurt. There were logs, limbs, lurking-looking shadows, and lots of rocks. There was no paved path and no cleared out way. They just had to follow instructions they were given by the scout leader. Hence, they followed the light and stay filled with hope that the scout leader’s words were trustworthy. Hope was their only path, their only way. The good news to share with you is that the scouts made it. When they arrived, they were directed to the shower facility and rewarded with brand new uniforms with a patch sewn on the shoulder. What about the banquet? Well, there was more food than you could imagine and the scouts ate until they were content and nothing, except joy, could be seen on their faces and heard in their voices.
My friend, you are going through the forest of life. It is filled with oppressive darkness, obstacles, and opposition, all that will try to influence you to give up. My advice is that you look at the light, referring to the Bright and Morning Star! Yes, keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. When you feel discouraged, remember the words sang by the gospel great singer above, “The only hope we have is in Christ Jesus. If you feel lost look to Jesus to carry you through! Read the closing verse and ramble on until you reach the other side one glad morning. Have a great day! Be blessed!
“Jesus told him, “I am the Way—yes, and the Truth and the Life. No one can get to the Father except by means of Me.” (The Living Bible)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King