”From long experience and observation, I am inclined to think that whoever finds redemption in the blood of Jesus—whoever is justified—has the choice of walking in the higher or the lower path.
I believe the Holy Spirit at that time sets before him the “more excellent way,” and incites him to walk therein—to choose the narrowest path in the narrow way—to aspire after the heights and depths of holiness—after the entire image of God.
But if he does not accept this offer, he insensibly declines into the lower order of Christians; he still goes on in what may be called a good way, serving God in his degree, and finds mercy in the close of life through the blood of the covenant.” from John Wesley, Sermon 89, “The More Excellent Way”
If you have been a Christian for a long time, you might be tempted to think that you have pretty much figured everything out about Christianity. Once you give in to that temptation, you may stop expecting greater things from God, stop trying new things for Christ, and stop making efforts to deepen your communion with the Holy Spirit.
The truth is, however, that no matter how familiar we feel with Christianity or how much we know, what God has planned for us in Jesus Christ is beyond our current knowledge and experience. There is always more for us to learn, explore, and experience.
We need to remind ourselves that there is no limit on how deeply we can go as Christians and as the Church. As John Wesley teaches, it is up to each of us to follow God ever deeper and ever farther, continually progressing along the solitary path—the more excellent way—the narrower path of love and service.
Picture yourself hiking in a dense forest. There is a wide, well-trodden path that is easy to follow, with clear markers and a smooth surface. Many people choose this path because it is comfortable and familiar. However, occasionally, you come across a smaller, less-traveled path that branches off into the wilderness. This narrower path is rougher and filled with thorns and obstacles, but it promises breathtaking views and a closer encounter with the heart of the forest.
Throughout our journey on the wider path, we encounter entryways to the narrower path. We are invited to leave the well-trodden way for the thornier, more challenging path. Which path will you choose? Which path are we choosing?
We are in a season where some of us are moving for a new appointment and some are staying to continue their current appointment. Whether moving or staying, our ministry will present precious opportunities just as our lives do, the opportunities to take the narrower path. It is my prayer that we do not waste but take these God-given opportunities.
Can you think of anyone who has walked the narrower path with Christ and found it full of regrets? Conversely, there are people on the wider path who regret ignoring the narrower path at the end of their journey. Let us not be among those with such regrets. Let us choose the narrower path.
Today is a new day. By God’s grace, we will encounter new entryways to the narrower path. Which path will you take?
“Who then is a wise man, and endued with knowledge among you? Let him resolve this day, this hour, this moment, the Lord assisting him, to choose in all the preceding particulars the “more excellent way:” And let him steadily keep it, both with regard to sleep, prayer, work, food, conversation, and diversions; and particularly with regard to the employment of that important talent, money.” —from John Wesley, Sermon 89, “The More Excellent Way”
