I’m Lost!

I’M LOST!

Barb and I took a mini-vacation to Flagstaff, AZ this week. Flagstaff is beautiful and much cooler than where we live in Florence, AZ. The elevation of Flagstaff is almost 7,000 feet.

Today (August 6) I decided to go for a “little stroll” and enjoy the mild temps and breeze. However, that “little stroll” turned out to be about an eight mile hike.

As I walked down South Lake Mary Road I spotted a nice looking trail. I figured the trail would come out near where Barb and I were staying, so I took it. At first the trail was about eight feet wide and level. As I walked the trail gradually narrowed. After several miles I realized I was lost in the Coconino National Forest. The path was now only about one foot wide, uneven, and rocky. I stumbled along. I didn’t know where I was or the way out. This 72 year old man’s ankles were hurting, my legs were getting tired, and my mouth was dry.

I tried using my Apple watch to navigate my way out. No help. I got a message that it needed an internet connection to give me directions. So, I just continued walking through the forest. I thought to myself, “This path must come out somewhere.”

Finally, I came across a couple from Sedona, AZ who were hiking. They were obviously experienced hikers. They had hiking boots, back packs, wide brimmed hats and bottles of water. They also wore masks on their mouth and nose and practiced “social distancing.” I had none of those things.  I asked, “I’m lost. How do I get out of this forest?” They said, “You need to turn around. If you continue down this path it will take you deeper into the forest.” They kindly instructed me which direction to travel. After about three miles I finally found the main road.

As I thought about this experience God impressed me what it feels like to be lost. First, not knowing where you are is an uneasy feeling. Second, not knowing where you are going is a fearful thing. Third, you desperately need someone to show you the way out! Fourth, you need to admit you are lost!

Every unsaved person is lost (2 Cor. 4:2).  They don’t know where they  are or where they are going when they die.  They need someone to show them the way. I praise God that God used a Christian named Gordie Raatz to show me the way to heaven (Jesus).

If you are a Christian, find some lost sinner whom you can point the way to be saved. Luke 19:10