“The Invitation”

I wrote this several years ago, and read it in church last week to go with a series we’re doing called “The Irresistible Invitation.” I had a lot of really good feedback on it, and wanted to share it here. I call it “The Invitation.”

The invitation is simple, but the decision is hard.

You say it once, extend your hand, and wait.

“Come,” you say. “Follow me.”

To come is to leave where I am. Who I’ve been. What I’ve done.

Wherever I am, and whatever I am doing…it all seems unimportant in light of the invitation.

“Get up,” you seem to say. “Move. Go.”

You seem to know something I don’t…that you have more for me. Something better.

That this life I’m in is dull. Dead. Empty.

And you can see that really, so am I.

So you extend your hand and wait. You wait while I decide.

“Come,” you say. “Follow me.”

Follow? Someone will lead me? I won’t go alone?

The path isn’t for me to pave. You’ve done it for me and will take me.

“I know the way,” you seem to say. “Come see what’s here for you.”

You seem to know something I don’t…

The way still looks dark, and I don’t understand what to do.

I don’t know where to go. I can’t see where you’re taking me.

But you’ve promised you can take me there.

I’m not sure…reluctant, but somehow tempted…

So you extend your hand and wait. You wait while I decide.

I reach out, then pull back.

You’ll take me?

“I’ll go, too,” you tell me.

Never leave me?

“Never.”

And you’re sure you know the way?

You smile. “I AM the way.”

Your hand still extends, waiting for me to decide.

Again I reach out, grasp your hand, and take the first step.

I keep my eyes on you.

Nothing else makes much sense….is dark, foggy, and unclear….

My life seems to call to me from behind, all around, but doesn’t compare to what lies ahead.

I still can’t see where we’re going, but I know it is better.

You’re my guiding light…..my patient guide….

My uncertainty lingers, but the fear is gone.

Your confidence builds my faith.

Your gentle touch reassures me.

Your soft words urge me on.

“Come,” you say. “Follow me.”

And so I do. And I will.

Never stopping. Pausing at times, slowing often, but never stopping.

I come. I follow. And it’s you. Always you.

The journey is mine to take, but it is our journey together. You know the way.

I’ll follow your constant presence….awestruck by your light….and reveling in this fantastic quest.

Always thankful for the invitation.

Grateful that you waited, hand extended, for me to decide.

Content is property of Jessica Bolyard and Adjusting to the World. Do not use without permission, please.