We Are People on a Journey

The lyrics remind me of the Via Dolorosa taken by my Lord. It was a very difficult but necessary journey for Jesus in order to accomplish His Father’s will. At the same time, I am also reminded that I too take a similar journey in both my physical and spiritual life. Both are not easy. 
 
As I age, my body has more ailments that I have to live with. Yet, I am reminded that although outwardly I may be degenerating, but inwardly I can be renewed day by day in my spirit-man. But this does not take place simply because I call myself a Christian, but it takes conscious effort to: 

1) Take up my cross and follow my Master. 
This means denying my own desires in order to follow Jesus’ desires for me. Obey His Word, follow His ways. I need to acknowledge that Jesus knows best what I need. I need to trust that His way may be rough and counter-culture, but it is the only way not to be entangled by the sins of this world. 

2) To come to His table so that I can be fed by the Word and by the Spirit.  
This has to be my daily priority. Bread and wine nourishes my body, but His Word and His Spirit nourishes my soul. That is how I can be renewed.  
 
3) Live my life with a view of my eventual and eternal homeland.  
This means to relinquish all acclaims in this temporal world. Live simply, serve humbly, hold on to earthly possessions/accomplishment very lightly. Instead, to build treasure in heaven that really matters (eg. fulfilling my calling, building spiritual relationships, sharing my faith with others).    

What compels me to take this difficult journey?  
1) God! The hope of witnessing His glory, the light of His throne. 
2) Jesus! He has already paved the way, I just have to follow. He protects me, I am safe if I keep to the narrow way. 
3) The Holy Spirit! He is my guide, He refreshes me and gives me strength. 
4) My fellow companions in Christ! I am not alone, and their koinonia is forever. – C.W.L.