There were 102 on board the small sailing vessels. Half of them had tired of the corruption in the Church of England and were bound for a new life where they could worship as they pleased; while half of them were eager to invest their time and money into a fledgling country that showed great promise. Each had no idea what was in store for them, but they pursued their dreams with determination, courage and hope. On September 15, 1620, the Mayflower set sail for Virginia, but was blown off course and wound up in what is today Massachusetts.

Our country has changed tremendously over the past 400 years, but many of the core values still exist. Sometimes it may seem that we have come full circle and should start looking for a new place to settle – a place without corruption – a community where we can begin again – a new Eden where God is still alive and active in the lives of His people.

We tend to think, in light of current events, that there aren’t many left who believe as we do. We might even believe we are a huge minority. On the outside, our world is a nasty place, but there is still more than a remnant of those who love God. I see that every day as I read the many writings of fellow Christians. It rekindles the same kind of hope, determination and courage these early pilgrims had to push them forward.

I believe that God is very much alive and He is available to us wherever we travel in life. When the world is crumbling around us, we can depend on Him to carry us over the rough seas that overtake us from time to time. All we have to do is believe in Him. It’s so simple and yet so very difficult for some.

Lord, help us to realize that you are the Captain of our journey through life. You are at the wheel and in control – guiding us, protecting us, refining us and leading us to our final destination. Give us the assurance that our pilgrimage here on earth is temporary and that we can look forward to an eternity in your paradise.  Amen!