I recently had the opportunity to take a wonderful cruise. Every morning we were given the daily ship’s newspaper, “Passages”. This six-page pamphlet helped us “cruisers” to get the most of our days spent in port pointing out the features and highlights.

Glancing over these key points we visitors were prepared not to miss all the wonderful adventures coming our way. Watch for this…don’t miss that….make sure you enjoy this special coffee….and be sure to watch your footing on this tour with challenging terrain.

We were also ready with exactly what we needed: passports, room keys, appropriate clothing for the weather, customs, shoes for the terrain. The crew distributed water and umbrellas ensuring that we would meet any situation with success.

Like little boys scouts, we were prepared!

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if every morning God would send us a pamphlet outlining our day so we wouldn’t miss one of his invitations and we were eager and prepared.

We might read: Don’t miss this opportunity to help this person. Be sure to be grateful for this. You might need an extra dose of patience for this situation or you might call on your faith to see you through this troubling situation.

But alas, we are on individual personal passages and each one of us is faced with different challenges, and joys in varying situations. Sure we can help, console, and support each other, but in the end, the journey is ours.

It’s up to each one of us to prepare ourselves for the events ahead.

So as we “pack and prepare” for the travels ahead, I think that a strong faith in God’s plan, eyes of awe, and hearts overflowing with gratitude will get us through most of our upcoming ports of call.

Are you ready?