A Train Ride Lesson

From me to you…

I have traveled to North Carolina quite often over the past year. I’ve been there for birthday parties, funerals, holidays and speaking engagements. But, never spend more than a weekend there. My last trip there I told myself that the next time I come I’m staying at least a week. So, after my recent hospital stay I started making plans to spend some time with my parents and family. My main concern was , OK how am I going to get there. I didn’t want to drive alone, but I wanted to go alone, lol. I have taken flights before. I have rode buses. I have driven long distance, but never had I been on a train longer than 20 minutes commuting to work or visiting New York. So, I decided I would take the train. I expected a fast, smooth and comfortable ride. It was faster than a bus, very comfortable, but smooth NOT! Every so often it felt like the little kiddie train ride at the amusement park; like it wanted to go off track, but would get a forceful push that caused your body to jerk. You get the picture right! This happened quite often during my 10 hour ride. It felt like every time I dozed off to sleep the train would do this.  Well after a few times I decided to listen to the Holy Spirit.  Here’s what I heard – ” I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.  But take heart, because I have overcome the world”. John 16:33. The lesson here is that every time I felt that shaking on the train, God was letting me know that your journey may not always be a smooth one. You will have trials and obstacles, but you must stay on course. No need to worry when things are not always going smooth.  The Holy Spirit is our Engineer and Conductor. He will lead and guide us. Christ has over come the sorrows and trials of this world,  therefore we are OVERCOMERS!