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Crossing the Jordan: Embracing Change

Leaving behind St. Louis for Houston was a big decision for my husband and me. While John was sorting out the details of his new job, I faced the daunting task of breaking the news to our three kids. Jennifer, our fiery 15-year-old, had carved out a life in Missouri she adored—friends, school, and yes, a boy.

I decided to spring the news at dinner, hoping for a touch of ceremony to soften the blow. But as soon as the words left my mouth, Jennifer’s reaction was swift and fierce. Plate clattering, she bolted upstairs, leaving me to ponder the storm ahead. In our family, Jennifer’s mood set the tone, and right then, it was far from sunny.

Life, it seems, is a series of transitions, some expected, others blindsiding us like a falling tree. From grade school to college, accidents to job changes, we navigate a winding path of change. But amidst the uncertainty, we can glean wisdom from the ancient tale of crossing the Jordan River—a journey laden with principles for navigating our own transitions.

The Israelites, led by Joshua, faced their own river of uncertainty, but unlike their predecessors, they embraced faith over fear. Let’s explore the lessons they learned.

Principle 1: Trust in Wise Leadership

In the turbulent sea of advice, the Israelites anchored themselves to Joshua, a leader chosen by God Himself. Unlike Absalom, who heeded disastrous counsel, Joshua followed divine guidance, paving the way for his people’s success. In times of transition, seeking counsel from trusted mentors and aligning with Godly wisdom can steer us in the right direction.

Principle 2: Find Strength in Faith and Reflection

Before crossing the Jordan, Joshua immersed himself in meditation and prayer, drawing strength from Scripture. Like him, we find solace and clarity in quiet reflection, fortifying our spirits for the journey ahead.

Principle 3: Prepare for the Journey

Preparation is the cornerstone of successful transitions. Just as Joshua instructed the Israelites to ready themselves before crossing, we too must equip ourselves for the road ahead. Whether it’s packing provisions or nurturing spiritual resilience, readiness ensures we face change with confidence.

Principle 4: Take Courageous Action

Like the Israelites stepping into the rushing waters, we must summon the courage to act. Sometimes, as Nike advocates, we simply need to “just do it.” Trusting in God’s provision, we forge ahead, knowing that victory awaits on the other side.

In the tapestry of life, transitions weave the threads of our stories, each change a brushstroke in the masterpiece of our journey. Whether it’s a move, a career shift, or a leap of faith, each transition holds the potential for growth and discovery.

As for Jennifer, her initial resistance melted into gratitude. Looking back, she sees how that move to Houston shaped her life—a Texas college, a loving marriage, and a family of her own. Sometimes, the most unexpected transitions lead to the greatest blessings.

So, as you stand on the brink of change, remember the lessons of the Jordan. Embrace the journey, trust in divine guidance, and step forward with courage. For beyond the river lies the promise of new beginnings and undiscovered joys.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Dear heavenly Father, as I live my life depending on You, may I honor You in all I do or think. Guide me and prepare me for whatever steps and paths You have chosen for me. Please open my eyes to understanding, so I can fully comprehend the Scriptures. Thank you. Amen.

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Christian Living, Prayer

Cocooning

Have you ever woken up feeling that you just want to go back to bed. You don’t want to think about the future. You don’t want to pick up the house. You don’t care if the dishes are left in the sink. And you don’t care about even opening the curtains to let a little light in. That’s what I call cocooning!

You just want to remain in the dark. You want to stay in a place where no one can see you. You want to be closed in where you can be alone with your own thoughts and even give yourself the freedom to have a pity party if you desire. And heaven help us if the doorbell rings. We don’t want any intrusions, so we pretend we aren’t home and pretend no one is behind the door. Sometimes these feelings stem from just being lazy. Other times it is because you have been too involved in the outside world that you need a break.

It is okay. It happens to all of us at one time or another.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary’s verb definition of cocoon is “to spend time at home instead of going out for other activities.” I am one of those people who likes to cocoon!

Usually when I am at home, I like my curtains closed most of the time. It isn’t because I don’t like the light; it is because when I am at home, I like to be truly at home – closed in; away from noise; away from outside pressures. I just like the secure-closed in feeling of being safe – of being allowed to think my own thoughts without distractions.

Jesus needed those times too. He needed to get away to pray by himself. He needed that quiet time to dwell on his life and his God-given mission. We need that too. But, with too much time to reflect, we can become so introverted that we are no use to others. Yes, closing in to relax and have time alone with God is necessary, but if when we find ourselves closing in without the spiritual tug to open ourselves up to be used by the Lord, we need to re-evaluate our motives.

Years ago, I had surgery. I had to stay in the house by myself for 2-3 weeks. Yes, I enjoyed the solitude needed for healing. I enjoyed the days getting up going to the fridge to get a drink, and then going back to bed surrounded by my blankets and my favorite books and reading materials. But, there does come a time when we need to get out. We need to experience life and be around other people.

If we find ourselves in a position where we feel we just can’t get out and face people, we need to muster up enough courage (with God’s help) and fortitude to be able to get going with life. It isn’t that we have to give up our quiet solitary life completely. But, we do need to ‘escape’ our cocoon and see what God has for us.

To do this, we must take time in our solitude to ask God for courage; to trust the Lord to show us how to be brave; how to minister to others; and when to cocoon back into the solitary we enjoy and many times need.

Mark 6:31 ESV

Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

Joshua 1:9 ESV

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

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