I love to travel. I have always had the desire to. As a kid, our family didn’t travel much. Going camping at a nearby lake every weekend during the summer and a few car vacations was the extent of our adventures. My Dad grew up moving a lot so I know that was why he liked staying close to home as an adult. But I used to dream of seeing new places and meeting new people.

Remember the days when traveling by car to any new destination required a Rand McNally road map? Every glove compartment had one. I was always fascinated how that huge piece of paper was folded so precisely to fit in such a compact place. Of course, once it was fully opened, could anyone ever get it folded back exactly right? I sure couldn’t. In addition to the standard maps, the Thomas Road Map Guide was beneficial when crossing state lines. You could get yourself around anywhere with one of those. 

Recently, I was reminded about the type of verbal directions people give. Most everyone seems to fall into one of two categories. There are those who give precise instructions. “Go 3.2 miles on State Street. Follow that for 1.4 miles then take a right on Wilson Avenue. Follow that for .75 of a mile. Turn left on Sprague.” And then there are those who rely on landmarks. “Go straight until you reach the 7-Eleven Mini Mart. Go passed that about a block and turn left. You’ll see an abandoned building on your right. Follow that road until you see the old farmhouse on the left.” Which type of directions do you give?

Actually, I’m pretty sure people don’t ask for or give directions like we once did. Now we all rely on GPS. What an amazing bit of technology. And it is so readily available. It’s standard equipment in most cars these days. After entering the desired address, the driver is given step by step directions in addition to having a digital map on the dashboard. Even most cell phones have a Maps App which gives detailed directions, again due to GPS. It is a fascinating tool. Even if you do get lost, it directs you how to get back on track. Such a lifesaver especially for those men who never wanted to ask for directions! 

I use the Maps App on my phone when I need to get to a new destination. But I also rely on a different GPS system most days. I count on my personal guidance system. God’s Protection Saves  keeps me on the right road. I know God is watching over me day and night. I know His love and guidance are always with me. Every time I back my car out of the driveway, I say a prayer to God and St. Christopher (the patron Saint of travelers) to be my eyes and ears while I am on the road and ask them to bring me back home safely. Even when I’m not traveling, I ask God to direct my everyday activities. I need His guidance with my decision making, my actions, the worries that plaque my heart and mind. I may think I know what I should do but following His lead is always the best direction. I believe God’s Protection Saves me. It is my GPS that I use everyday. 

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” Proverbs 16:9