Christopher Cross released a song in 1980 called “Sailing”. Having grown up in Florida only a block from the gulf I could easily picture the kind of moment described in the song. Some of the lyrics are,
“Well, it’s not far down to paradise, at least it’s not for meAnd if the wind is right you can sail away and find tranquility.Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see.Believe me.
Sailing takes me away to where I’ve always heard it could beJust a dream and the wind to carry me. And soon I will be free.”
I loved to close my eyes, picture the perfect Florida morning with the sun shining, low 80’s, light breeze and gently sailing across the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. When things would get difficult at home or work it became more of a longing then just a relaxing moment. I wondered what it would take to make that picture a reality. We all can have visions of the ‘great escape’. The wise and stable among us never let it go beyond a moments respite. Respit is defined as, “a delay or cessation for a time, especially of anything distressing or trying; an interval of relief’”. Doesn’t that sound nice? God has given us a place. Maybe not necessarily geographically but certainly a clear calling and roles in families and the kingdom. To abandon them is to step outside His protection and our place of powerful impact and peace. As wonderful as an afternoon of sailing sounds, and can be, when pursued as a long term escape from Gods call it is not the panacea or the ideal we imagine. It is destructive and dangerous. Today enjoy the respites God gives and stay in the center of His will. #BeTheEdge.
“You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” Hebrews 10:36 NIV
