The Valley of Baca (suffering).

We have all been there in that dark valley where pain and suffering exist. We've all encountered that path through the valley of the shadow of death. Sadly, some of us have found our homes and chosen to remain there. And yet, this is not our home; this is a temporary place on life's journey, one in which to take stock and put things in perspective. And even here, amid death, grief and tears, a hand is reaching down from further along the path whose name is Hope. 

There is a cry in front saying, “Keep going, don't give up, and don’t stay here. Come up higher, keep moving, and reach for My hand… your Good Shepherd. I will lead you out of this place and bring you to Mount Zion. There, you will come into My presence and worship Me.” 

Can you hear that call now in your despair? Can you hear and feel the love carried in the voice? Can you receive the energy to keep going? Can you glimpse what could be around the corner and over the hill? Yes, that's right. If you listen, even in the darkest place, you can hear the call to “Come”. Then, your heart can be filled with hope, and your eyes can begin to see the possibilities before you. 

Baca isn't your home, Baca isn't your resting place, and Baca isn't your destination. 

So, hear my voice calling, says the Lord—the Good Shepherd. Hear my impassioned plea to dismantle your camp in Baca and come up to Mount Zion, where you will see your beloved King. I promise you that it will be worth the effort.

Blessed is the man whose strength is in You,

 Whose heart is set on pilgrimage.

 As they pass through the Valley of Baca,

 They make it a spring;

 The rain also covers it with pools.

 They go from strength to strength;

Each one appears before God in Zion.

Psalms 84:5-7