A song for the journey:

As with gladness men of old did the guiding star behold;
As with joy they hailed its light, leading onward, beaming bright,
So, most gracious Lord, may we evermore be led to Thee.

As with joyful steps they sped to that lowly manger bed,
There to bend the knee before Him whom heav’n and earth adore,
So, may we with willing feet ever seek the mercy seat.

As they offered gifts most rare at that manger rude and bare,
So may we with holy joy, pure and free from sin’s alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring, Christ, to Thee our heav’nly King.

Holy Jesus, ev’ry day keep us in the narrow way;
And when earthly things are past, bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide, where no clouds Thy glory hide.

(As With Gladness Men of Old – W. C. Dix)

~lg

The change is becoming greater now. Through many dangers, toils and snares you have already come; they have altered you. His promise has altered you as well, as has your living by it. You notice the difference not only in your circumstances, but in your very identity. You are learning your new name, one that you did not choose, but which was given to you.

Take a rest on your journey to read these passages and ponder this question:
Genesis 17:1-5, 15-16
Isaiah 43:1
Luke 1:13, 20-22, 59-64
Revelation 2:17

In what ways has your journey changed who you are?

~lg

Perhaps it was impatience, mistrust or even despair. Whatever the reason, you thought you had a better way. His way may seem higher, harder and completely unsafe, but it is always ultimately good.

Take a rest on your journey to read these passages and ponder this question:
Genesis 16; 17:18-21
Proverbs 3:5-8
Isaiah 55:6-9
Matthew 1:18-25

In what ways have you attempted to take God’s promise into your own hands, and how has His grace been shown despite your lack of faith?

~lg

You wouldn’t be here still if you had not some moment of thrill or even terrible awe to hold on to. You hold it with a fierce and holy joy, for you are you certain. You cannot comprehend it fully, but you are certain… He was there.

Take a rest on your journey to read these passages and ponder this question:
Genesis 15:6-21
Exodus 3:1-6
Matthew 2:1-10
Luke 2:25-33

How has God shown Himself tangibly to you?

~lg

Your payment in exchange for a divine promise may not be what you expected. What did the father of many nations give? What did the mother of the nations’ Saviour present? All who desire to enter this family must bring an offering in kind.

Take a rest on your journey to read these passages and ponder this question:
Genesis 15:6
Luke 1:38
Romans 4:16-24
Galatians 3:6-9, 29

What is the role and response of faith in pursuing God’s promise?

~lg