by Deborah Towles
Synopsis: In addition to fielding the question, "Are we there yet," parents are encouraged to use road trips as opportunities to explore and discuss parallel spiritual lessons of the Christian's journey toward heaven.
For untold centuries, the lure of a more promising land, a better home, or the hope of a brighter future has drawn men away from the familiar into the adventure of the unknown. Some travel in expectation of reuniting with distant loved ones. Others seek to view the new and awesome beauty of far-off places with their own eyes, unsatisfied with second-hand accounts. Whatever the reason for hitting the road, the destination is not all that is gained by taking the journey. Many spiritual, as well as physical, life-lessons may be learned along the way.
Travelers usually have a compelling goal or destination in mind (2 Pet. 3:13). Planning is required, costs calculated (Luke 14:28-33), tools assembled and preparations made for possible emergencies (Eph. 6:10-13), emergency contacts kept handy (Phil. 4:6; 1 Thess. 5:17), and the packing of essentials completed (Luke 10:42; Gal. 3:27). A GPS or maps (since there may not always be a signal) are essential (Ps. 119:105), especially for the directionally challenged (Jer. 10:23)! Pit stops are necessary and provide times of refreshing along the way (John 6:53-58, 66-68).
When driving, it is critical to trust and follow the map (Ps. 9:10; Matt. 7:13-14), to obey the rules of the road (Heb. 5:9), and to drive defensively (Acts 20:30-32). Be sober (1 Pet. 1:13) and alert for road hazards, traffic problems, impaired or distracted drivers (2 Cor. 4:3-4; Luke 10:40), and animals (1 Pet. 5:8). Keep your line of vision clear (Col 3:1-2) and be on guard for hazardous situations (1 Cor. 16:13; 15:33; Jas. 1:14-16). Be alert and beware—some drivers occasionally demonstrate "road rage" (John 15:18-19) or may, through confusion or malice, drive the wrong way in the wrong lane. Warning them of their mistakes and avoiding them may save many lives (Titus 3:9-11; 2 Tim. 3:1-5). When ascending steep mountain roads, it may be necessary to gear down to keep momentum and so gain the summit (Heb. 6:1a; Phil. 3:12-14), for once lost, it is hard to regain (Heb. 2:13; 4:1-6). Overloading a vehicle in mountainous terrain is unwise, so leave unnecessary things behind (Heb. 12:1). Exercising steady control (2 Pet. 1:6,11) during descents prevent disasters such as brake failure or missing the turn on a hairpin curve. Fill up frequently because unexpected delays often occur (Phil. 1:21-29). Resolve, patience, and character may be severely tested by the tedium of delays and troubles along the way (Deut. 8:1-9; 2 Pet. 3:9-15a). Yet, when your destination is successfully reached, these trials fade into memory and become the basis of a good tale (Jas. 1:2-4,12; Rom. 8:18).
Traveling companions matter on long journeys. Murmuring, moping, or impatient travelers make for a weary expedition. Complaining is counter-productive and discouraging (Phil. 2:14-15), so be an encourager (Heb. 10: 23-25)! Engaging the mind, when the body has to be still, helps all of us endure the tedium (Rom. 12:2; 2 Cor. 4:16-18). Keep excitement and enthusiasm for your destination alive in your own heart and share it with others (Heb. 13:14-25; Phil. 3:14, 20-21). Finally, don't forget to enjoy the view (1 Thess. 5:16-18).
We, like Abraham, are on a journey to a promised land, a better home, and a brighter future (Heb. 11:10). We are traveling with the expectation of reuniting with distant loved ones (1 Thess. 4:13-17; Titus 2:13). We are longing to see a land of inexpressible beauty with our own eyes; having heard of its glory is not enough (Rev. 21:1-5)! We should prepare for hazards, delays, and discouragements. Yet, we understand that the testing of our hearts prepares and perfects us for our final destination (1 Pet. 1:7-9). This journey will take a lifetime, so rejoice in the experience. Exalt in the glorious vistas along the way, knowing that the marvelous beauties we see here are nothing in comparison to those that await us (Rev. 22:1-4, 22-27).
The next time you take a trip with your children, pack in some spiritual lessons to share with your captive audience as you travel along the way. It will help them on the greatest journey they will ever undertake, and may even make the present trip more memorable and meaningful.
Author Bio: Deborah is the wife of Gale Towles who preaches for the State Line Church of Christ in Charlotte, NC. Gale and Deborah have been married forty-two years. They have four children and nineteen grandchildren. She can be reached at dtowles321@gmail.com.
