Walking lessons… Enoch, Ben and Sara

Each year I read through Bible. In January I start Genesis; at the end of December I finish Revelation…

Yesterday the universe, world, creatures, mankind, were created… Today Adam and Eve lost their innocence, relationship with God and home… Cain murdered his brother Abel… In the middle of the genealogy from Adam to Noah, I read ‘Enoch walked with God’. Two sentences later, again, ‘Enoch walked with God’.

Walking with God…

Walking is about effort and intent in the journey of life. It might be a rough  rocky track, or a smooth easy path… a steep, tiring hill-climb in a storm, or a relaxing stroll in the sunshine. Whatever the situation we’re moving, making progress.

With God implies companionship, a relationship, sharing time and conversation. It’s about being with someone whatever the situation, developing consistent trust and mutual understanding.

Yesterday I read…

…Ben was working for a Christian charity dealing with the female victims of sex trafficking… He became concerned for the men who were exploiting them. He’s now set up a project that offers ‘free, confidential and non-judgemental counselling to men who have purchased sex’, many of whom are Christians. He says:

‘Of course these men have made choices we would advise against, but the reality is they’re also living with lots of shame and guilt and remorse… and in their own way they are suffering.’

…Our niece, Sara, has chosen ‘service’ as her word for 2026 ‘…by giving my time, energy, attention, without seeking recognition. In a world where we are often invited to think of ourselves first, serving, for me, is choosing to put others first.’

She describes serving through her work, community, family, friends… motivated by her God who ‘feeds my intentions, enlightens my choices and gives meaning to my commitment.’

‘In 2026, I wish to… humbly go where the needs are great. Giving time, presence, listening…’

Enoch teaches me about walking with God; Ben challenges me to examine my prejudices about other travellers; Sara reminds me that I’m serving those walking with me.

(Enoch is found in Genesis 5:22, 24; Ben’s wrote about the Christian Charity ‘Azalea’ in the January edition of Premier Christianity; Sara wrote on Facebook – translated from French)