Jesus told this simple story, but they had no idea what he was talking about. So he tried again. “I’ll be explicit, then. I am the Gate for the sheep. All those others are up to no good—sheep stealers, every one of them. But the sheep didn’t listen to them. I am the Gate. Anyone who goes through me will be cared for—will freely go in and out, and find pasture. A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. John 10:8-10 MSG
What an adventure over the last week. With my wife and family we have been hiking the Grand Canyon, stepping over a rattlesnake in Bryce, enduring 105 degree weather in Zion, ATVing through a hailstorm in Duck Creek and enjoying the great outdoors in so many other ways. In this time I have realized that everyday is an adventure in my relationship with God. He wants to give me more and better life. So how do we live the adventure everyday?
Connect to the source
Jesus is the source of eternal life in eternity and abundant life on earth. We all need to live in His presence moment by moment by talking and listening to Him. On this journey I have been in constant communication with my family to discern where we want to go and how we get there. We formed a plan and lived it out. in the same way we need to listen to our Shepherd and work out the plan together for our lives.
Prepare for pitfalls.
There is a real danger out there. My brother in law, Jeff, almost step on a rattlesnake eating a chipmonk in the middle of the path. We had lightning strikes almost on top of us and dealt with the effects of dehydration. Without proper preparation like boots, a plan and gallons of water, each of those could have b devastating. Likewise, in life there is a real danger from the spiritual battle going on around us. There are spiritual forces that want to steal, kill and destroy us. Self doubt gnaws at our bones. Indecisiveness leaves us paralyzed. Travesty leaves us devastated. By keeping connected to Jesus and preparing our plan we will overcome these obstacles to the incredible life we are to live.
Choose wise companions
We need to sorround ourselves with people who will encourage us on our journey. The support Cindy and I have from friends and family is tremendous and helps us overcome our obstacles. Who are in your inner circle? How have you cultivated those relationships to be mutually supportive? There are too many sheep stealers out there who would take us down. I trust my family with my life and they trust me.
So go out an live the adventure! Connect, prepare and choose wisely and you will have more and better life than you ever dreamed of.
Lead WILD 