In the story of Pilgrims’ Progress, there is a man who left the City of Destruction for the Celestial City. On the way, he faces many difficulties and temptations. John Bunyan described Christian conversion as a journey in this way, and let us keep making the journey. Paul said the same. “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). Christian salvation is not an event but a spiritual journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City, so we should take some steps to taste God’s holiness and Christian perfection.

Conversion means to come to Jesus and reconnect with him. Do you remember that Nicodemus came to Jesus and asked to see the Kingdom of God? He was a well-respected man and a teacher of the law, having money, power, and position as a successful man. But he lacked one thing. He didn’t know how to build a closer relationship with Jesus. He had a desire to come to Jesus for spiritual growth, so when he met Jesus, Jesus indicated that he was sincere in his search for the truth and the Kingdom’s life.

In the same way, if we feel spiritual dryness, it causes several issues. It might be health issues, anxiety for the future, a storm of doubt, etc. When we face these kinds of problems, we should go to Jesus and reconnect with him. It’s just like a vine. If a branch does not remain united to the vine, it will have no fruit of joy and peace but rather is thrown away and withers.

When we are separated from Jesus, all kinds of fear attacks us. We can think of Peter and the other disciples who came upon a storm while sailing. The wind was against them, and the waves were violent against the boat. They were not going forward, and they were overwhelmed with fear and despair. But the most fearful thing was that they realized that Jesus was not with them. And while they were struggling in the violent storm, Jesus appeared among them, and after that, the storm became calm.

The ship can be a symbol of the Christian life, and this world is like a spiritual stormy sea. If there is no Jesus in our lives, we will fear when we inevitably face many waves and storms. But when Jesus comes into our lives, we can feel safe with him. Jesus is calling us to come close to him. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matt 11:2). If we are Christians, we have to be close to Jesus. He will calm our fear and anxiety. Also, Jesus will free us from our physical and mental (emotional) sufferings. Let’s remember the lady who suffered bleeding for twelve years. When she came to Jesus and touched his cloak, she was freed from her suffering. Let’s remember that Jesus is the right person to heal us from every weakness.

Are you hungry for knowledge of God and Jesus? Are you overwhelmed due to uncertainty for the future? Are you suffering physically or emotionally? Let’s recall what Jesus said to us. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matt 11:28-29). And let’s practice these three things.

Let’s come to the place to worship.

Let’s come to the place of prayer.

And, let’s come to the place of loving people.