Shipwrecked

“A ship in harbor is safe -- but that is not what ships are built for.” John A. Shedd.  John Shedd was an uber-successful American businessman.  In 1901, he started as a clerk, in the Chicago-based department store, Marshall-Field, and worked his way up to become president of the company.  He was a philanthropist, funding many museums, libraries and the famous Shedd Aquarium.  Mr. Shedd wasn’t just lucky, he knew that if he wanted to rise through the ranks, he had to get out of his safe harbor.  I’m sure he had times of disappointment, but he wasn’t going to let temporary setbacks shipwreck his long term goals.  How many times have you “set sail” on a new endeavor, full of enthusiasm, only to turn back to the dock when the seas got choppy?  Let’s face it, we all have.  No one likes to feel adrift in uncharted waters, so we throw our ropes around the moors, and never venture any further.  What a waste!  John Shedd knew that ships were meant to be sailed. Their whole purpose is to transport people, and cargo, to faraway lands enjoying the journey along the way.  As a Christian, I have to admit,  it’s scary to sail beyond the familiar, security of my harbor.  At this point of complacency, God refers me to the lives of faithful men and women who set sail into deep water, way over their heads.  Sure they hit reefs, sandbars and maybe even a pirate or two, but they pushed back into the sea after each setback.  Think of all that the disciples, Paul, and Jesus went through.  Now think about where we’d be if they had stayed in dry dock.  We would be shipwrecked!  So raise those masts, trim your sails and let’s all set sail on that gospel ship. After all, it’s what we were built for!! “Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked.” 1 Timothy 1:19