The Call to Forgive Like Christ

Reflection

There was a time, before the convenience of cell phones and digital devices, when reaching someone, especially a loved one, was quite difficult. If you needed to run errands or go to the store, you couldn’t quickly text your spouse to pick up something last minute. And if you came home early and couldn’t find them, there was no instant way to reach them. You couldn’t just send a quick message. You had to leave a note or call around on a landline to close friends or family. Oh, how I remember those days.

It’s easy to take today’s conveniences for granted, but there was something much more intentional about communication back then. If you wanted to find someone during ancient times, you had to actively seek them out. You had to follow the path they’d left behind. Maybe you looked for pressed-down grass or footprints where they had walked. In the search, you’d trace their steps, looking for the signs they left. And through that search, you’d find your way.

This idea of following the “footsteps of the flock” in Song of Solomon 1:8 carries a deeper meaning for us today. Just like searching for a loved one, seeking out God’s presence requires effort and intentionality. It’s not always instant or convenient. But if we look closely, we can find His footsteps in our lives. The path He has laid before us is one we must follow, just as the flock follows the shepherd to safety and nourishment.

When we follow Jesus, we are walking in His footsteps, seeking His guidance and understanding, just like those who followed the path of the early believers. In Hebrews 6:12, we are encouraged to “be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” The gospel itself is an invitation to follow Jesus, to seek Him and to grow in faith and patience.

The early believers, like Abraham, walked this way. They followed God’s leading even when they couldn’t see the end of the journey. Abraham left his homeland, trusting God’s promises, and became the father of faith. His footsteps were marked by unwavering trust in God's call. Like Abraham, we too are called to walk in faith, even when the path ahead is unclear.

God is always present, but we must choose to follow His footsteps. In the rush of life, we may miss the subtle signs of His direction. But if we seek Him with our whole heart, we will find Him. He is the Shepherd who leads us beside quiet waters, and He is calling us to follow His way, step by step.