I have always loved Journeys.  There is an anticipation of what is next. The journey represents the joy of the unknown. When walking trails, I will frequently say “let’s see what’s around the next curve.” Turning around too soon could mean you miss out on the majesty just over the next hill. There is a sense of adventure when you are in unfamiliar territory. 

My favorite movies growing up reflected this love of the new.  Indiana Jones, Goonies, The Mummy, and National Treasure were just a few that captured my attention. I liked to dream; to imagine treasures and bravery and new heights and freedom. 

But for all the emotions and adrenaline they generated, they were not actual adventures.  I didn’t have to experience the grueling hardships that inevitably come with real adventures.  I was safe. 

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had my own adventures, but it would be hard to sustain that lifestyle nonstop. Movies allow you to explore beyond yourself; to grasp at what is possible. 

For my love of it all, I never expected to be here; on a new adventure to discover the heart of the God of the Universe. To be honest, I feel angry that I was surrounded by faith, but never noticed the love of this seemingly unknowable God. Why did no one tell me about this sooner? 

It is uncharitable to blame others for my predicament. I was presented with all the facts and clues to his character, I just never understood it. Honestly, I’m not so sure many truly do. 

I’m not about to tell you I have all the answers and you need to listen to me and the wisdom I am capable of imparting upon you. That would be folly. I still don’t understand God… but I know what I thought before fell short of the truth.

In the National Treasure movie, Benjamin Gates discovered a treasure map on the back of the Declaration of Independence, using a special pair of glasses.  As he flipped lenses on these amazing spectacles, more of the map’s invisible ink was made visible to him. 

God is infinitely knowable, but I’ve been looking for him with the wrong lenses. I needed to shift my paradigm. To look at Him in a new way. I am now beginning that process, and it is hard work. Many will say I’m doing it wrong− searching in the wrong place− but then the Spirit speaks to my heart, saying “Let’s see what is around the next curve…”