The geese flew high under the billowing clouds, heading north. I counted 160 of them in the big V formation and, even though we were a mile away, we could hear their constant springtime melody of honking.
What a view they had from up there, looking down at the familiar blue lakes and green forests. I could just imagine Mr. Goose finding his favorite old pond or the same edge of the lonely lake. Back home to the lovely north!
I’ve had that “coming home” feeling a few times. I still remember the warm Siberian sun on my face as we stood in the sad village rail yard waiting for the train. And then what a wonderful feeling it was to peer through the dirty window at the tired old wooden houses and watch them fade into memories. It was wonderful to visit and help, but oh, so wonderful to be going home to familiar places, familiar food, clean water and precious hugs.
Could it be that even you are feeling the need to come back home spiritually? Maybe you’ve had good intentions, even made a few plans to get back. And God has tugged at the strings of your heart more earnestly recently. I like the bumper sticker I see on the car just down the street. “God allows U-turns.” Indeed He does!
You know it could be better, don’t you? You remember sunnier days, when you had more interest in spiritual things. Time, activities and urgencies have rather frayed that interest, but recently you’ve thought about getting back.
You’ll remember the timeless Bible story of the Prodigal Son, the son who wasted his money, time and talent. The Lord Jesus told of the son’s determination to return home and his prayer of regret. The lost son did go back, humbled and remorseful, but yet the reception he got was worth it all.
Do you remember how the Lord spoke of our need to stop, turn and begin with God? He commanded us to “repent,” start thinking from God’s point of view, and “believe the gospel,” the message of God’s grace for repentant sinners. He also put out the welcome mat when He said, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out” (John 6:3737All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. (John 6:37)).
Thinking about a change? Need to come back? Come home! This is where you belong. You will never find happiness in running away from God. “Come unto Me...and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:2828Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)).