Who Is a Sojourner?
And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be sojourners in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years. — Genesis 15:13, ASV
This is one of many times that the word, sojourner is used in the Hebrew scriptures. The above verse indicates the struggles of a sojourner who suffers but also serves.
Sojourners are travelers on a journey. This means that even in difficult times, sojourners understand that the condition is not permanent. For believers, this journey is from mortal to immortal, from corruptible to incorruptible, from earth to heaven, from house to home.
This journey is meant to be filled with God’s peace that passes all understanding, God’s unfailing love, and God’s joy that overflows. For some, these feelings come easily during Advent. Yet, for others, this season is filled with pain, hurt, doubt, and fear. The same was true throughout the Hebrew and New Testament scriptures, and it is true in 2019. Honestly, at different times, I have been a sojourner filled with joy and at other times with despair.
Most important is not where we are at this moment, but the fact that we continue, because a sojourn is a temporary stay. This was true for Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, for all prophets, for Mary and Joseph…but in the Christ child, who is the Way, we have assurance that we do not journey alone or without purpose.
So, today keep moving, knowing that you are loved and not alone on this journey.
Heavenly Father, bless our journey. Be with us each step. Grant us strength and courage. Give us more of Your peace, love, and joy. Help us share those with others. In Jesus Name, we pray. Amen