19 May
How’d I End Up Here?
I’ve realized something about myself: I’m a complete sucker for compliments. A couple years ago while doing intern missions in Athens, Greece however, this got me into some big trouble.
I quickly discovered that outdoor flea markets aren’t the best place for me. On my first venture I was bombarded by merchants shouting: “Special price just for the handsome man!” How could I refuse? Ten minutes later my wallet was empty, and my arms were full of useless pots, ugly shirts that didn’t fit, and several Greek souvenirs made in China. Lesson learned…I thought.
I later decided to venture out to the ancient city of Corinth. After a long train ride I arrived. It was such a fascinating place I didn’t even notice when the sun began to set. I realized I’d better return to the station before the last train departed. A voice called out, “Special rate for the attractive young man!” I followed the voice back to a smiling taxi driver. Did he just say “attractive?” I was sold. I informed my new best friend that I needed a lift to the train station. He even knew a shortcut, cutting twenty minutes off the trip, saving me money as a result! What a guy!
Reaching my destination, it didn’t look familiar. I asked for confirmation, and through his thick Greek accent and broken English I was assured that around the building I could find the train to take me to Athens. I handed over the money (which seemed pretty steep, but how could I argue with such a nice man!). Waving goodbye to my buddy I walked around the building and my heart stopped.
It was indeed a train station, but by the looks of it there hadn’t been a train through it in a hundred years. The only life-forms visible were the spiders hanging off the cobwebs. I had just been scammed.
Leaving the station, I discovered I had been left in the most authentic Greek part of Corinth. No one spoke English. My cell phone battery had died, and my wallet was empty (stupid Corinth flea market). The sun was setting and I was completely stranded, with no way home.
I find I’m also easily led astray in my Christian life. Everything around me is constantly telling me how to live and where to go. Usually those paths look really attractive too; but in the end, I’ve found myself in some dark places far away from God’s joy and will for my life.
Aren’t you glad God doesn’t leave us to hopelessly navigate through this life alone? We have an omniscient God who wants to guide us (Isa. 28:29). If you’ve realized you’re already lost on the wrong path, don’t worry. I’m not writing from a shady Corinthian curbside; I found my way back. It’s never too late to return to God and let Him guide your footsteps. I’m lousy in choosing my own paths, so I’m thankful I can rely on God to lead me. He has never led me astray and He never will.
This also comes from the Lord of hosts, who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in guidance. Isaiah 28:29
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About the Author
Daniel Blackaby is a second year college student at Mount Royal College, in Calgary, AB. His biggest passions in life are music and literature. He plays guitar in a Christian rock band and also plays bass guitar, drums, and keyboard.
Apart from playing music, Daniel loves to listen to all types of music and has over 700 CDs on his iTunes. He admits he’s a huge nerd who loves to read and enjoys collecting classic literature. He loves to hang out and have a good time, but his primary goal is to try and live life to the fullest and glorify God in everything he does. You can contact him by email at boonster@telus.net.
Read more about Daniel here.
