Remember that question when you were a child, riding in a car with no idea of where you were going or when you would arrive? Remember your own children asking that question or even a friend who was riding with you? It really is a profound question when you begin to think about the real destination.

When we are travelling from point A to point B, we can be certain of our arrival if we have the correct address in our GPS. However, the journey of life from one point to another can often be confusing and frustrating. Sometimes I think that this time of the liturgical year can be in the latter category.

We spend lots of thought in preparation for December 24/25. We practice music for the Christmas Eve service; we plan for just the right look on the altar; the proper configuration of the processional; the perfect sermon. At home, we decorate and plan the food for the Christmas feast. We spend time buying gifts for the special people in our lives. The time leading up to Christmas Day is frantic and terrifying. It is often not satisfying and doesn’t offer a proper answer to the above question.

And then, in an instant, the day arrives and leaves. Are we there yet? We may be disappointed or unsure about our arrival point. Where is “there” on this spiritual path that consumes so much of our time and leaves us confused about the arrival at our real destination.

Personally, I find that I often get lost during this holy season. I lose my way and neglect to reach out for the very concrete help that I can get by placing my needs in the hands of our Savior, Jesus Christ. He always sends me the Holy Spirit with whispered suggestions to calm my concerns and point me in the right direction.

Regardless of the time of year, my “there” is at the feet of the Father who loves us unconditionally and wants only the best for His children. I know that I am there when I remember to pray continually for help in everything that I do. His answer is “Yes, you are there.”

Terri