John 11:54-57

John 11:54-57 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  I"m a strong believer in the idea that there are seasons of ministry for each of us.  At times, the Spirit's leading is clear and strong, and we know what ministry looks like in our family and our immediate community.  At other times, it feels as though a fog has descended and the next step is so obscure that you're uncertain as to whether or not you should even take it.  At times like this, Jesus can feel distant and removed.
  Fortunately, the Gospels don't only present the highlights of Jesus' ministry.  They tell us about the times like this, when Jesus didn't walk openly among the Jews due to their opposition to him.  He dwelt in Ephraim near the wilderness, staying with the disciples.
  I've been near the wilderness, and I've been in the wilderness, and I suspect you have, too.  At times, it feels like the wilderness is a forever home, and you may as well get comfortable there, but God's never finished with us in the wilderness.  Just as Moses went to care for sheep far from Egypt, and Elijah fled to a streambed where he was fed by ravens, there's a Biblical history for God leading people out of the wilderness.  The story never ends in the darkest chapter of the night -- Revelation tells us that the story ends in the light of the Kingdom, and so rest assured that the wilderness is never a destination, only a stop along the way, where we learn how heavily we can depend upon God.