I have called this an unexpected journey for several reasons. The first reason being that it never crossed my mind that I needed to take a journey. The invitation came out of the blue, catching me by surprise. This is why I compare it with Bilbo Baggins of The Hobbit movie.
Like Bilbo, I was living my life, although deep inside, I knew something was missing, or there must be something more than what I was experiencing. However, since I had no idea what that could be, I continued along as I had ever done.
Also like Bilbo, the introduction to the journey came quite unexpectedly. I was tasked with turning around a dying congregation, making them into a viable presence in the community. The idea of closing the doors of the “church” and moving into the family room of the parsonage was borne out of necessity, not desire for something more.
Just as Bilbo rejected the idea when it was presented to him, so too did I think it was ridiculous. The plan was to reduce expenses while building up capital so we could return to the “church.” However, there was something about the situation, that resonated with that deep down feeling of something more.
After sleeping on it, and realizing that the company had moved on, leaving him behind, Bilbo quickly gathered his things, rushing out the door to catch up with them.
I believe this is what happened in my situation. That deep down feeling grabbed the opportunity to call me to action. I had to go this way; what would happen if I didn’t and I missed what God was calling me to do?
So, I (quite unexpectedly) went.
Another reason I have called it an unexpected journey, is because I had no idea where the path was leading. Unlike Bilbo and his companions, I did not know that I was headed to the Misty Mountains. In this instance, it was more like Abram hearing God say to leave everything familiar to follow him—wherever he would lead.
This journey began in 2008. It has taken many “unexpected” turns, many of which I trust have been the right direction. I say this because in my logic, it makes no sense at all. In some instances, hindsight has yet to prove that it was the right decision, while others have certainly, been confirmed; but that deep down feeling is at peace.
Yet another reason for calling this, the unexpected journey, are the discoveries that have been made. For example, when I first began this journey, I knew about the godhead, but had not clue about developing a close personal relationship with each one.
Another thing I realize is how important it is to begin the journey, as opposed to being hung up. where you may, or may not be, in the journey. For me, I began with stepping outside the confines of the traditional church building. To embrace having a close personal relationship with God the Father, and God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, would have been too much for me.
The point of is this is to start, where that deep down feeling—also known as the prompting of the Holy Spirit—prompts you to start. Do not become caught up in where someone else might me in his or her journey.