By Lt. Colonel Hugh Steele

As we approach the impending Commissioning of new Salvation Army Officers this weekend, my mind drifts back 42 years to the commencement of my own Officership journey. Candidly, I have encountered moments of great reward and fulfillment juxtaposed with numerous arduous trials throughout this journey.

What is the nature of this expedition called life for me? It encompasses a tapestry of marvels, challenges, diligent labor, soaring triumphs, crushing defeats, jubilant festivities, memorable moments, and recollections that define my sojourn as a follower of Jesus Christ.

A quote by Antonio Brown sums it up nicely for me, “The journey is never-ending. There’s always gonna be growth, improvement, adversity; you just gotta take it all in and do what’s right, continue to grow, continue to live in the moment.”

As I continue traversing life’s meandering path, I grow increasingly aware that this road will eventually culminate, signaling the advent of a new expedition—retirement. At that juncture, when I arrive at the crossroads of my life’s pilgrimage, I choose to anticipate what lies ahead. It is with unreserved honesty that I confess the present journey has not invariably been facile, and I express heartfelt gratitude for the divine presence of the Lord along my life’s journey.

Proverbs 3:5-6 is a constant reminder for me throughout this journey of life that I must… “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

We’re all on a journey in life. Like myself, many are experiencing rewarding moments of profound gratification while simultaneously grappling with the myriad tribulations life cast their way.

A song written by Emma M. Johnston raises a question for us all… “Why should life a weary journey seem? Why should I my cross a burden deem? All the way is marked by love divine, round my path the rays of glory shine, Christ himself companion is of mine, Jesus is my light and song”.

As we continue our journeys in life, with its ups and downs, may we proclaim, as Emma did in the chorus, “Jesus is my light, Jesus is my light, Jesus is my light and song; Jesus is my light, I’ll serve him with my might, Jesus is my light and song.”

The journey of life is not meant to be feared and planned; it is meant to be traveled and enjoyed. (unknown)