Once upon a time . . . and the story began. Does anyone else remember the anticipation of hearing all about the adventures of slaying giants and defeating ugly witches; Snow White fully grown and adoringly tended by 7 tiny gentlemen; Cinderella dressed in rags transforms into a beautiful princess when the glass slipper fits; Hansel and Gretel finding their way back home because of breadcrumbs scattered along the path.
How often do we use breadcrumbs today to find our way back? I’m reminded of this in Psalm 119:55 “In the night, Lord, I remember your name, that I may keep your law.” From the time I was in elementary school, I loved summer camp and didn’t want to miss my opportunity to be there for two weeks. My parents couldn’t afford to send me so I memorized Bible verses to earn a camp scholarship. Today those verses are my breadcrumbs. They run through my mind by day and I wake up with them on my mind in the night.
In science class I learned that our physical bodies are constantly trying to find homeostasis – to be in a state of stability, maintaining internal equilibrium and health regardless of outside conditions. Doesn’t it seem like we are constantly trying to find that balance between activity and rest; work and leisure? Sometimes it seems like the nickname for my calendar should be chaos – and I’m working on that – not overcommitting. How about you?
Do you, like me tell yourself that things will slow down, I’ll find my stride, life will find a comfortable routine . . . but instead there I am stuck in the spin cycle.
You know what? All is not lost! We have breadcrumbs to find our way back. God gives us words to comfort us, guide us, give us hope, fill us with unexplained peace. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7
Scripture verses give me courage when the enemy of my soul lays out before me all the reasons for fear. Breadcrumbs lead the way back to comforting faith. Whether in illness or perfect health, we are one breath away from talking with God.
I’m blessed and thankful to have memorized hundreds of scripture verses at a young age, but even if I hadn’t it’s never too late to lay out breadcrumbs so when life gets messy, you can find your way back to a place of peace. Are you weary today? There’s a trail of breadcrumbs to take you back to a place of peace. In Matthew 11:28 Jesus said “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Breadcrumbs – come to me all who labor and whose hearts are heavy – Here’s the path …. let’s get out there!