The Road That Isn't... Yet.

This morning it was a single word in my email subject line draws me to itself like a bee to honey.

Trailblazer. 

Over the last decade I've been referred to as a Trailblazer by many. I have even found solace in the ability to put words to my innate nature that is passionate about creating and facilitating change.

Some say I'm a natural born leader. That description of me never seemed to fit or settle in as my truth. In fact, evidence seemed to confirm the opposite, I had no "followers" (Mary Kay, Young Living Oils, other MLM ventures I engaged in). Okay, I may have had one here and there. This truth is paramount... more on it later.

I recently heard a Sunday morning message on the difference between a natural born leader, and a transitional leader. That principle resonated far more with my inner self. Transition. A period of time, a season. After all, I am a Chaplain. A person of faith who provides pastoral care to those who are in a place, or time, that doesn't permit access to their own pastoral leader. One who practices their own faith but meets the needs of another while they are on their journey... to health, service, and even war.

A dear friend, with the best of intentions, once accused me of having a gypsy spirit. Naturally, she was hoping to bring me freedom to stay put. Our walks can quite often make others uncomfortable with their own. Be it by design, inheritance, or mistake, God uses all things for the good of those that love Him. (Romans 8:28) And God knows, I love Him deeply. It is in knowing I keep good company that I find solace. After all, John the Baptist wondered alone, was a voice crying in the wilderness, and ate honeycomb (Matthew 3:1-4; Isaiah 40:3).  He was a man who didn’t fit into a traditional lifestyle. Yet, God had big plans for him. And He does for me too!

Recently while embarking on new vision and stretching the tent stakes of ministry, I was compelled to share the following dream vision God gave me years ago. His purpose was to school me in the mantle or shroud I wear as a Trailblazer.

I was yielding a long handled sickle, clearing a path in a wheat field. The husks were flying high into the air and over my shoulders. A closer look made it clear that those who followed behind were being blinded by the falling wheat. My first lesson was to lead far enough ahead to cast vision for those following. The second was of a personal nature. When you stop and turn to look over your shoulder, you create fear and distrust in those who are following you. 

He confirms His word with signs and wonders. He confirms the word of His servant. (Mark 16:20; Isaiah 42:6)

Today I can look back at where I've been and who has followed. Evidence confirms I am that ... the one who goes after the one. The one who forgoes the masses to pursue the abandoned and forgotten. Clearly that road is not paved. In fact, it probably isn't even worn, as it has had but one passerby.

I am a Trailblazer, by design.

"... there would always be a part of me that would never quite be fulfilled unless I took the road that hadn't even been paved yet... you are called to do something that has never been done before. Because of that, things will get lonely at times. Do not give up, though! Eventually God will send people to support you and love you and help you blaze that trail. But for now, just do it." - Amber Picotta

Pick up your sickle.
Keep your eyes on Jesus.
Create the road that isn't... yet!

Called to Change, more than a prison ministry.