Trustworthy Guides

Trustworthy guides set our minds at ease. They give us wisdom and insight as we embark on the journey of life. They give us confidence as we step onto roadways that are all too often bumpy, dangerous, and confusing. Yet, when we know that people have been on the same road before us, when we have the assurance that they walk in the ways of the Lord, when others have helped build our confidence in the insights these guides bring, we are able to step out confidently in faith and embrace whatever might be waiting on the journey ahead.

Luke begins his narrative by giving us, his readers, the incredible gift of some very trustworthy guides. They help us understand what God is doing, what salvation is, and how the kingdom of God is breaking into the world through Jesus Christ. Think back on the time you spent in Luke 1 this past week. The role call of players is almost overwhelming. Zechariah and Elizabeth “were righteous before God, living blamelessly” (1:6). Mary “found favor with God” (1:30) and “overshadowed by the Spirit” (1:35). Elizabeth’s son has the gift of the Holy Spirit and is a prophet while he is still in her womb (1:15, 41). We overhear the angel of the Lord revealing what God is doing in the world (1:13f, 28f). Luke’s second chapter is no different. We hear angels praise God for his visitation in the birth of Jesus (2:10f). We meet two prophets, Simeon and Anna, in the temple who are guided by the Holy Spirit (2:27) and devout (2:37). Through their words, we are assured that God is doing something amazing for all peoples of the world through Mary’s son (2:29-33; 2:38). By introducing us to these trusted guides, Luke gives us new courage, new hope, and new eyes to understand what is happening as we journey through the narrative with Jesus.

Think about the co-travelers and guides in your life. Think about the people that sit around you in this community of faith. Think of those to whom you turn when the clouds loom ominously overhead. Think about the people who bolster your courage on the way. Think about the shepherds who help lead us all more fully bear the image of God. Think about the men and the women who have such incredible wisdom and insight, who are in tune with the Spirit of God, and who can help us recapture the vision of what God is doing in the world. The beginning of Luke’s narrative reminds us of the importance of trustworthy guides and travel companions as we begin the journey of life and faith. They are the ones who help us see the world more clearly through the eyes of God.