Looking Forward

When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; but they did not receive him, because his face was set towards Jerusalem. When his disciples James and John saw it, they said, ‘Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?’ But he turned and rebuked them. Then they went on to another village. As they were going along the road, someone said to him, ‘I will follow you wherever you go.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.’ To another he said, ‘Follow me.’ But he said, ‘Lord, first let me go and bury my father.’ But Jesus said to him, ‘Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.’ Another said, ‘I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home.’ Jesus said to him, ‘No one who puts a hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.’ Luke 9:51-62

Creator God you move us forward

you plow the road ahead before us

preparing the places where we take root

and urging us on when we are stuck.

Shadows follow behind us as we go

we are tempted to linger and mourn

our youth, our losses and our successes

yet you urge us to step out in faith.

Like those who encountered Jesus

wanting follow and wanting safety

we are tenuous and anxious disciples

though you have promised to be with us.

Help us to face the future with joy

trusting that you go before us always

letting love and spirit guide our path

and your words the lantern in the night. Amen.