“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.”
-John Muir
When was the last time you got completely lost? It’s hard to do these days, as most of us have digital maps at our fingertips at all times!
Several years ago, I was on retreat at Eastern Point Retreat House in Gloucester, MA. Every afternoon, I would go for a long walk along the scenic byway that overlooks the ocean. One day, a car pulled alongside me, and a woman in the passenger seat rolled down her window to ask for directions.
I chuckled to myself. I had no idea where I was going, except that I had figured out an easy loop from the retreat house and back. Furthermore, spiritually speaking, I was feeling pretty lost myself, and here was someone asking ME for directions!
There’s an old saying “Lost is a place, too,” which provides comforting words in those moments when we’re feeling stuck or waiting for clarity. Lost can look like many things—grief, unemployment, anxiety, fear, or being overwhelmed—any time we find ourselves turned around and unsure of which direction to go.
As I consider who God is in this moment, especially as I reflect on the challenges of the past year, I hold tight to the belief that God makes a way. God meets us exactly where we are, including that “lost” place, and God makes a way forward.
Where I see nothing but a dead-end road, God sees a faint path through the woods. Much to my dismay at times, God delights in detour signs and hairpin turns. It may not always be clear in the moment, but I’ve learned to trust that God is the Way Maker. God is always running two, three, or even ten steps ahead of me and paving the way.
Here are 4 indicators of how God makes a way:
1. God’s way is to make all things new
It is in God’s very nature to create something out of nothing (Genesis 1:2) and to transform the old into something new (2 Corinthians 5:17). In every moment, there is an opportunity for God to reshape the raw material of our lives, like a potter molding the clay (Jeremiah 18:4). God is always using our gifts and experiences to propel us forward and into something new.
See, I am doing something new!
Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
In the wilderness I make a way,
in the wasteland, rivers.
2. God’s way is through
I’ve said this elsewhere, “The only way through is through.” The prospect of going through a difficult moment can be daunting! Given the option, I’m sure most of us would prefer to take the shortcut, because facing our challenges head-on is not always easy. It may require honest conversation, enduring physical pain, facing hard realities, listening to other perspectives, extending kindness to others, and being patient with ourselves. We don’t get there alone, for God is always walking alongside us, and there is grace to be found along the way.
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name: you are mine.
When you pass through waters, I will be with you;
through rivers, you shall not be swept away.
When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned,
nor will flames consume you.
3. God’s way is not always a straight path
I am amazed at how God chooses the most unlikely people to be part of God’s plan. The story of our salvation is chock full of sinners, misfits, and scaredy-cats. God uses imperfect people to accomplish the miraculous! When life throws an unexpected curve, I remind myself that God’s plan for my life will not always look like a straight line. There is nothing that I need to produce or accomplish in order to be worthy of God’s grace, and I do not have to be perfect in order for God to use me for the good of others.
He guides me along right paths
for the sake of his name.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff comfort me.
4. God’s way follows the path of Jesus
Jesus says, “I am the way!” (John 14:6). If we are looking for the way forward, one sure place to look is to the One who says over and over again, “Follow me!” Jesus offers sight to our weary eyes, brings healing to our aching bodies, shows us a place of rest, and extends endless forgiveness. Jesus does not promise a life free from pain or suffering, but he assures us that new life awaits us. He goes ahead of us on the path, and his way leads to peace.
My sheep hear my voice;
I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish.
No one can take them out of my hand.
As we walk into this new year, I pray that whatever circumstances life brings your way, that you know God as the Way Maker! Through all the joys and challenges, in the midst of heartache and celebration, trust that God is making a way for you!
Going Deeper
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Consider a time when you felt lost, stuck, confused, or uncertain. How did God make a way through for you?
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Spend some time praying with the scripture passages shared throughout this post.
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Consider the quote shared by John Muir: “Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” What does it stir within you? What might God want to share with you about the paths ahead?
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Reflect on these prayer poems about how God makes a way:
- “A Traveler” by Denise Levertov
- “Thoughts in Solitude” by Thomas Merton
- “For Those Who Have Far to Travel” by Jan Richardson
- “Trasna” by Raphael Consedine, PBVM
Photo by Mason Mulcahy on Unsplash
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Beth Knobbe
Beth Knobbe is an author, speaker, and ministry professional based in Chicago, Illinois. She earned a Master of Divinity Degree from Catholic Theological Union and serves as a Senior Trainer with Catholic Relief Services, engaging Catholics in living their faith in solidarity with the poor around the world. Beth is an avid traveler and is passionate about her vocation to the single life. Beth is the author of Party of One: Living Single with Faith, Purpose, and Passion (2011) and Finding My Voice: A Young Woman’s Perspective (2009). Her personal blog can be found at www.bethknobbe.com.
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