Walking Off the Map
A continuous conversation from a traveler’s journey from tragedy to triumph
By Ralaine Fagone
Copyrighted 2011
While traveling I take time to stop and soak in the view. These vista points provide an opportunity for me to ponder the places Father met me. The new vantage point helps this traveler see in a broader perspective. A deep satisfaction comes when I look at how far I have traveled. Gratitude is sent through my prayerful sigh, I made it this far. My confidence builds knowing: the same faithful God will continue to provide all I need as I reach terrain off in the distance.
I began to compare the actual landscape with my unrolled map. The map revealed the most direct path, where the refreshing streams are, and exposed the rough rugged places to avoid. Sticking to the map insures a formula for success. In the past it kept me out of trouble and gave me comfort, providing some predictability. I rolled up the map, keeping it in hand, while viewing my next destination. Excitement mixed with confidence filled my heart as I slipped on my backpack; I was ready to roll.
As I began traveling I saw Jesus up ahead. His warm greeting was a drink of cool water to my traveling soul. We began walking together in the direction I selected. Our conversation was refreshing, yet deep. When He spoke, my innermost being came alive with a vibration that reminded me of a tuning fork. “You have studied this map and know it well. There are things I want to show and teach you that are not yet seen on the map.” He asked me a question: “Ralaine, will you put it in your backpack?” His question revealed my misplaced dependence on the map. Reluctant to answer, my mind began warring with Jesus’ question.
My map had become my trusted guide; I could walk this journey pretty well as I decided what to do at difficult places. How could I put aside something I was familiar with and still hope to make it to my next destination? After all, He gave me the map. Jesus’ question revealed my thoughts and intentions while, at the same time, applauded my spirit to be courageous to trust and obey as I followed Him step by step.
“For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Heb. 4:12
I was raised in a Christian home. Along with my godly heritage came a deep love for the written word of God. Scripture memorization was highly valued; my father modeled this having memorized almost 20 books of the Bible before he passed away. When difficult times came, as a child I was shown how to turn to the Bible and find safety, protection and provision. The Holy Spirit would direct us to a rhema word that had “life” and with that word we would stand in faith and declare the word of the Lord. I witnessed first hand the power of God’s word in everyday life. We even had a Scripture to quote for lost car keys:
“For nothing is hidden that shall not come to light.” - Luke 8:17
It worked, time and time again. My favorite family conversations have been of the times we found ourselves in trouble and the miraculous ways God brought provision. The love for God’s word is part of my own life experience; one I impart to my own children.
When my son James was arrested for his connection to a high profile murder case, I naturally responded by turning to the word of God for answers. I asked Father: What is Your plan? Where are You going? Where should I set my sights so I can walk in faith with You? What used to be a fairly smooth experience—finding the word with “life” in it so I could stand and declare His word—had become ineffective, a wall of silence. The Scriptures did bring a peace and comfort to me, but the old reliable method of seeking God to know where He was headed had changed. My life’s coping mechanism quit working at the time I needed it most. I had never faced circumstances this large, why would Father not be working in my familiar way?
“Behold, the former things have come to pass, Now I declare new things; Before they spring forth I proclaim them to you.” Is. 42:9
After three months of seeking the answers to my questions, I heard the Spirit speak to my spirit. It was not audible —I heard with my innermost being. He answered my hungry heart’s questions. Father gave me five things to hold on to:
He continued by giving me a directive: “Go, purchase a stake and drive it in the ground. It will serve as a reminder. When man comes and tells you something different, remember we have partnered together.” This took place seven and a-half years ago.
Following the spoken word takes me to places that are not located on the map. In those places I find new discovery about God. It is not merely information about Him but a “knowing Him” that is developed. As I follow His voice and pull out my map, I see places that were on the map all along. It is in the relationship of knowing Him that these things are seen and experienced. His word and relationship need to be joined together. I believe the spoken word of God to be reliable because of Who He is. But what do you do when the judge sentences your son to life in prison?
In the next issue I will share the results of my obedience.