Directionally Misplaced by Martin Wiles

I admit-I’ve been directionally misplaced a few times and refused to do anything about it. Directional misplacement is typically a man’s disease made evident by: “I’m not going to stop and ask for directions.” I’ve stopped on several occasions but only because I don’t enjoy going out of the way or needlessly burning up fuel.

GPS systems and smart phone applications have helped the male egos tremendously. Now I simply plug in my destination and arrive safely without having to worry about getting directionally misplaced.

Disciple Thomas didn’t have this disease. He knew he didn’t know the directions to where Jesus was going but wasn’t afraid to ask. When Jesus told his disciples he was leaving for heaven to prepare a place for them and then return, Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” (John 14:5).

Some propose Christianity is narrow-and it is. Jesus subsequently told them; I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6). Good works, positive self talk, immaculate self esteem, friends in the right places, education, family heritage, moral living-and any other roads other than faith won’t cut it. Faith in Jesus is the only highway leading to heaven.

The entrance itself may seem like a narrow one way street, but once in it transforms into a super highway with enough lanes for everyone interested in coming. So if you or someone you know is directionally misplaced, plug in “heaven” and you’ll find there’s only one route whether you’re walking or driving. But the good news is Jesus created enough room for everyone-no matter where you’ve come from or what you’ve done.

Prayer: Thank you merciful Lord for the right directions to our final destination.