Who would want to go back to Egypt? Back to the oppressive, grind of slavery?

People caught in the grip of fear. This is the story of Israel, who weighed the testimony of ten discouraging spies against the testimony of Joshua and Caleb.

Often, we are faced with a choice: enter into the unknown, or return to the familiar. Even when the familiar is bad, and the unknown holds promise, the voice crying, “Turn back!” remains persuasive.

Two voices vie for attention when we choose to follow Christ.

The Lord promises to lead us out of slavery and deliver us from all forms of oppression. But the journey to freedom is not easy. It involves death and rebirth. It promises the deepest, most long-lasting rewards, but also involves sacrifice. This is the path Jesus walks before us and with us; following him requires total trust.

There is a contrary voice who sows seeds of doubt. We are warned about loss, about unpleasant places we may be led, and how inadequate we are for the journey.

Which voice have you been following? Who do you trust?