Turning

One important step on the Pilgrim Path is realizing that you need to turn around because somehow you have ended up heading in the wrong direction. The spiritual pilgrimage in life has parallels with actual physical journeys. This year we were hiking in the woods following a path that we expected would lead to a high overlook with a beautiful view of the river and countryside below. We briefly checked the map and trail markers. However, in the woods there are often multiple trails branching off. As we were walking, we noticed we were gradually going down, and we eventually came to a dead end of the trail. We realized we had missed a sign and had taken the wrong trail. We needed to turn around and discover the correct path. After doing this we were able to proceed upwards to the beautiful overlook.

Likewise in your spiritual pilgrimage, a wrong path leading you downward morally and spiritually, may be initially gradual and the downward slope may hardly be noticed. However, eventually you will find yourself lost or at a dead end. You will need to realize and acknowledge that you have taken the wrong trail and then turn around. This can be true of individual steps and actions, but even more a turning involving the mind, emotions, and will should result in a complete change in one’s purpose and way of life. Greek terms for this are metanoeo (repent) and epistrepho (turning) and are important part of the path to forgiveness and spiritual salvation. Returniing to God and his way begins with realizing we have taken the wrong way and turning with faith in God towards a new path and way of life through Jesus Christ.