Happy Trails

The man called his wife's name Eve, because she was the mother of all living. And the LORD God made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins and clothed them. Then the LORD God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of us in knowing good and evil. Now, lest he reach out his hand and take also of the tree of life and eat, and live forever—” therefore the LORD God sent him out from the garden of Eden to work the ground from which he was taken. He drove out the man, and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim and a flaming sword that turned every way to guard the way to the tree of life. (Genesis 3:20-24 ESV).

“Happy Trails” was the theme song by Roy Rogers and Dale Evans at the end of all of their programs. It is still remembered fondly today by thousands. The lyrics were: Happy trails to you, until we meet again. Happy trails to you, keep smilin' until then. Who cares about the clouds when we're together? Just sing a song and bring the sunny weather. Happy trails to you, 'till we meet again. As I wrote yesterday about the grandeur of the creation and God’s great gift of life to us through Christ, I couldn’t help but think of how different Adam and Eve might have felt as they were banished from the garden. I have told that story many times. I always remember to finish the story with the inclusion of God’s grace. Even with that being true, I have been told a time or two that talking about God banishing Adam and Eve is a very depressing story. One particular instance took place after Vacation Bible School when a mom came to me and said that she really didn’t understand why we need to tell children such depressing things. The truth is that the Bible is filled with stories about God’s people making poor choices and suffering the consequences. Our personal stories are filled with those choices as well. We don’t enjoy the consequences of the poor decisions we make. However, it only serves to remind us of the good news. We must not forget that before God sent them out of the garden to face the harsh world fallen as a result of their sin, he also made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins and clothed them. Not only did that act take care of their immediate need, it prophesied the provision he would make for their ultimate need. God always knew what would happen when he created man. He also knew the solution. While the beginning of the story might be difficult, the end of the story can be so much better. Through Jesus God really did provide a means for all of us to have “Happy Trails.” Trust in the work of Christ on the cross. He is the only means by which you may have eternal life!