On a recent hike, our group saw a high mountain lake that was good for swimming and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining refreshment. To get there, we had to leave the path we knew would take us home. This ‘shortcut’ as it turned out, was very difficult. There were no footholds, only sliding rocks. When we put our hands down to steady ourselves, thorny shrubs provided only further discomfort and suffering. Some got down faster than others and our party became separated.
At last, when we reached the bottom of the ravine, we were separated from the lake by yet another ridge. The thing that seemed so easy to get to and that held such promise of pleasure turned out to have a very high price. Sweaty, scraped, bleeding and disillusioned, we got back on the right path.
This experience is like chasing after sin. We see something that promises pleasure, seems easy to do and with no obvious consequences. In order to get there, we have to leave the path we know. This unfamiliar road is filled with pain, suffering, and other unforeseen consequences. Our pursuit of sin separates us from God and his people. And the thing we thought looked so wonderful is full of disappointment and unfulfilled expectations.
Repentance is found in the analogy, too. Hurt and disillusioned, we can always turn back to the right path and find healing; knowing this path will lead us home.
Borrowed