Traveling Style

After several years of leading backpacking trips, I have noticed that people fall into one of two categories: journey hikers or destination hikers. Some guys blast off from camp each day with that night's camp in their sights. They rarely stop or slow down. The next campsite becomes their entire focus for the day. They are on a mission! Others are reluctant to leave camp. They are the last to break down their tent and load their pack. On the trail they are perfectly content to take frequent stops. Have a snack. Adjust their pack. They will inspect a leaf and compare the color difference of each side!

I have heard people say things like: "The journey is the destination" or "The path is the goal". Really? How about 'the journey is the journey and the destination is the destination'? But what is most important? Where should our focus be? Should we set goals in life and pursue them without regarding what we encounter along the way? Or should we just take life as it comes, wandering around enjoying all that life has to offer - and end up wherever we end up? Destination or Journey? Which is most important?

I think both attitudes are correct.

The journey is important because it is where we grow. We cannot get anywhere without moving. Without stepping into life, we stagnate and die. It is where we are tested. Peter was safe in the boat. His journey (at least for that day) began when he risked to step onto the water. We are also instructed to live in the here and now. Jesus said, "Don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow brings its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today." (Matt 7:34) This journey of life is where we interact with those around us - our wife, children, friends, and coworkers. The journey is where we live.

But to say that the destination doesn't matter, that the journey is the destination, is leaving out something critical. One of Paul's major themes is to strive toward the goal. We should be forever pressing forward to perfection in Christ. In everything Jesus instructed his followers to do, he said do it so your reward will be great in heaven. Our destination is WHY we journey. A journey without a destination is aimless wandering. It may be enjoyable at times, but you will miss the real reward - the true meaning. I bet you enjoy working within your vocation. Meaningful work is satisfying but you still want that reward at the end of the day. Show me the money! It is what pushes us through difficult times. The end motivates my means and makes my work all the more satisfying. Focus on the correct destination keeps our feet on the right path. "Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." Proverbs 3:6

Destination gives direction to our journey. It is important to choose a true direction in our lives. It is just as important to truly live. "For in him we live and move and exist." Acts 17:28 I think we have to enjoy the journey while staying focused on the destination.

Wander with a purpose.