Meet Me at the Table 2

In 1519 Spanish Conquistador Hernan Cortes landed on the shores of Mexico. He then ordered his ships to be “burned.” While “burning” actually meant the ships were dismantled with the essential pieces being saved and utilized and the rest intentionally sunk – the phrase “burn the ships” stuck.

Why did he give such an order? Cortes knew as long as the ships were available there would always be an option to return. He wanted himself and his men committed to life in this new land. No matter how hard or trying it got they would know there was no plan b..this was it.. and they were going to be committed for the long haul.

Cortes set out to conquer the capital city of the Aztecs, to achieve wealth, acquire new land, and spread Christianity and he was successful! I wonder if he had not burned those ships if they would have achieved what they set out to do?

We are all on a journey, a pilgrimage, through life with ups, downs, successes, and failures. Even through the Valley of Baca (or the valley of weeping) God’s strength can be made perfect in our weakness. His faithfulness can be seen at work in our life. It’s how we get our testimony! Jesus even said “In this world you will have trouble but take heart I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Are you committed to your journey? We are all on pilgrimage but are you on pilgrimage with Him? Do you find yourself with one foot in the “world” and one foot in relationship with Him? I encourage you to evaluate your heart.

Its easy to get in a trap of knowing about God but not actually knowing God..of doing things “for” God but not doing things “with” God..

Be committed to being a follower of Jesus. When the journey is uphill and rocky..stay the course.. keep yours eyes ahead and on Him.

BURN THE SHIPS AND DON’T LOOK BACK!