December: Satellite Phone
A few years ago, Kayla and I were hiking through Joshua Tree National Park. We were a bit nervous as it was the first time we were away from Nora for an extended period of time. It was also early 2021, so not far removed from the COVID-19 pandemic. But we wanted to get out of the house and do something which wasn’t going to put us around many people. Thus, this little backpacking trip was born. Because we enjoy the company of others we wanted to invite another couple along. One of the precautionary measures we took was to invest in a small satellite phone. There was more than a good chance we would end up without cell service as we made our way into backcountry. We began the hike and as expected, we lost cell service less than a mile from the trailhead. The satellite phone provided some peace of mind as we disappeared into the wilderness. We kept in touch, sending short messages after leaving camp, while dropping location pins via the satellite phone's tracking capabilities. Ultimately, the trip went perfectly and we even got to do some exploring through the vast desert landscape.
Who knew a little satellite phone would be the thing that gives us confidence to walk into the desert? As I reflect on this event I cannot help but view Jesus Christ as our “satellite phone.” Sure, it sounds a bit ridiculous but hear me out. There are times in our lives where we will feel more than just lost. We are lost and confused to the point where we feel completely isolated, cut off with no way out. But that’s where Jesus comes into the fold. It doesn’t matter where we are in the world, we are never too isolated to find Jesus. He’s everywhere. And since his birth, there has always been a guiding light, pointing us to him.
Matthew 2:1-2, 9-10
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him…After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.”
The Magi weren’t quite lost but they had heard of Jesus’ birth and were looking for a way to find him. The star of Bethlehem served as a navigational beacon for the Magi to make their way to the savior. While we no longer have the star to guide us, we have heard of and celebrate the birth of our Savior. As we enter into the season of Advent, we have found a word which is a lamp unto our feet. (Psalm 119:105) Likewise, John testifies to this word, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (1:14)
The testimonies of the disciples, witnesses, and followers to Jesus’ ministry serve as a signpost for us today. We read the red letters, the teachings of Jesus in the Bible, understanding something special was happening. The world had received a Savior. Yet, not only a Savior. We were given a means to reinterpret how we go through our own proverbial deserts. This season we celebrate the God who is with us. The God who guides us. Even through the moments we have nothing more than the clothes on our backs. This Advent season, let us take care to place our confidence in Christ Jesus. Our Lord. Our peace in the desert. Our compass which guides us home.
Peace to you.
Rev. Taylor Kibler
