Take a Walk with Me - Pt. 5

 

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. (Hebrews 11:6-7 ESV).

 

The picture today is from the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River that runs in front of the cabin where Mary and I enjoy staying when we are in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It was taken in the fall of the year, and the colors were incredible. So was the fly fishing! I love to fish, especially when I’ve got the chance to catch some rainbows in the mountains. It has required that I “persevere.” In fact, I’ve done a lot more fishing than catching though. These beautiful fish are wary. I’ve finally figured out the right pattern of fly and the approach and have caught a few nice fish here. So far, they’ve all gone back to the river to allow others the pleasure of fishing for them.

 

I am reminded of the need for perseverance in our journey by this memory. The story of Noah illustrates this truth. Noah’s journey isn’t about fishing a trout stream, but about building an ark. And if you’ve ever built anything, you know that it involves many steps in a process. Gathering materials, measuring, cutting, fitting, shaping, joining, finishing. Piece by piece, the ark took shape. God had commanded Noah to build an enormous lifeboat on dry land. It took Noah years to complete what seemed an impossible, ludicrous project. Imagine the courage, resolve, and sheer stamina it took to work on the ark day after day as his neighbors mocked him.

 

God chose Noah not for his perseverance but for his faith. When he received God’s command, Noah didn’t hesitate. Though he may have had doubts, he acted in faith, step by step, until the ark was ready. Our reading today commends Noah for his active faith. In the face of what seemed ridiculous and impossible, Noah walked with God. We may not finish every task we try to accomplish for God’s kingdom, but if we step out in faith in obedience to God, we walk with the Lord in his strength. Sometimes we even catch a few fish!