For most of my life, I wandered around (mostly in circles) searching for something – for the perfect person to spend my life with, a faithful purpose, and trying to find a path leading to greater joy and fulfillment.

After years of aimless searching, I ended up completely exhausted. I had no idea where I was going. I was tired and frustrated that my steps usually led to nowhere. It was clear that I needed someone to lead me – to take my hand and show me the way. For a recovering control freak, this was a very difficult thing to accept and has been even harder to implement.

I think of the “trust game” I’ve played so many times on retreats. It is called the Blindfold Lead. In this exercise, a blindfolded person is led by a sighted person. At first, you’re led across a level field. But as the game progresses, you are led around increasingly complex obstacles and paths that are more difficult. The game is about building trust and effective communication.

The parallels with my walk with Jesus are very clear - trusting Him to show me the way, through and around obstacles, something I can accomplish only through close and continuous communication with Him. I need his constant guidance and assurance that He knows the way.

Along my path, I picked up a few people to walk with me. I have learned that we aren’t meant to walk alone. God entrusted me with four kids, a husband, and several good and faithful friends. It was along this path that I found Linda Withers. We have been pursuing ministry alongside one another for many years. It has been a great honor doing “wild kingdom” work with her.