Spiritual inertia is the dominant factor in the spiritual lives of many people today. In contrast, God in the Bible is continually calling people to get moving! This is quite evident in the Christmas stories, where no one stays in the same place. Mary and Joseph journey to Bethlehem, the shepherds are called to go from the fields into the town, and the wise men embark on an extensive journey, traveling from the East to arrive finally at the Holy Family.

God in the Bible is continually calling people to get moving! Share on X

Of course, embarking on a journey can involve challenge and risk; but the Scriptures call us to step forth with a trust in God. It is God who will lead us! It is as we journey with God that we experience the deep blessing of God’s grace, and we find that God is leading us toward a glorious destiny.

The beginning of a new year is a good time to overcome any “spiritual inertia” in our life—by opening ourselves to the inspiration and empowerment of God’s Spirit! Along with the wise men, we can respond to God’s call to set forth on a journey of faith—a journey that will connect us with Jesus and with God’s eternal promises.

Sunday’s Scripture Readings:
Hebrews 11:8–10
Matthew 2:1–12

About the Author

Dr. David A. Palmer has been the senior pastor at the United Methodist Church of Kent since 1995. He has a B.A. from Wittenberg University, a Master of Divinity from Duke University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary. A native of Wooster, Ohio, he has served three other churches in east Ohio before coming to Kent. He and his wife, Mavis, have three children.