by Desiree Bustamante

Migrating to our eternal destination.

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If you’ve ever been in the Midwest, in the autumn or spring, and traveled along the Platte, or Missouri Rivers, you may have seen the migration of many kinds of birds. These birds pause near rivers, and valleys, to fatten up on grain left in the cornfields. They are on their way from the south, to the Arctic, to nest and raise a family.

As they fly, they form patterns that help them in the wind, and through storms, navigating with the help of a lead bird. They know who to follow, who to trust, that their leader will get them to their destination, and find food, and water, along the way. It’s a long taxing journey.

 “He lets me rest in green meadows;
    he leads me beside peaceful streams.
 He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
    bringing honor to his name.

Even when I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
    for you are close beside me.”
Psalm 23:2-4 New Living Translation

We may not be on a migratory voyage, as these birds are, but we are on a spiritual journey. Our paths may differ, but God is our supreme navigator. He may alter our route, but He graciously supplies us with any provisions we need for the trip. He guides us in the direction we should go, protects us from the storms, gives us strength in the headwinds, and provides community with the family of faith along the way for encouragement. We need only trust His leading.

Yet at times we divert from the path, and explore on our own. We leave the safety of the flock for an adventure, not thinking about where that path might lead us until it’s too late. Fortunately, we have a Savior who is there to rescue us. Even though He cares for the birds, He cares for us more. He bought us with a price far greater than some grain and water. He bought us with His very own blood. As we are in the final week of Lent, remember His sacrifice and His continual leading in your life.

“If I ride the wings of the morning,
    if I dwell by the farthest oceans,
even there your hand will guide me,
    and your strength will support me.”
Psalm 139:9-10 New Living Translation

He has promised us that at the end of our journey, our final nesting place will be in his arms for eternity.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado