Footprints

My grandchildren like to make footprints. When they get out of the pool, they will sometimes purposely walk around on the deck, leaving those wet little shapes of their feet. We’ve all read (or written) mystery stories that involve searching for footprints as clues to who has been where. I’ve sometimes wondered if the places I walk each day would stay visible, perhaps light up so I could see which were mine, would I be amazed at the many tracks I’ve made and where my feet have taken me? Would I see that I walked with a purpose or wandered aimlessly? Would I be saddened in the direction they went or wonder why I didn’t take another path?

And when I look back at my life, am I pleased with the footprints I’ve left behind? The Bible says God’s word is “a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). The Lord knew that I would not walk in the right direction or that I would get off the track if He didn’t leave a map for me to follow. And sometimes darkness covers the right way. In times like those, I need a lamp to light my way.

I remember when I was a child, if I went somewhere with my dad, I didn’t worry about getting lost or being afraid of anything or anyone I might encounter. It didn’t matter whether our trip was in the daytime or at night. Dad was beside me. No harm could touch me. My footprints went in the same direction as his and I was okay.

When my grandchildren were small, I insisted on taking their hands each time we got out of the car to go to the library, the mall, wherever. To feel a little child’s hand in mine and know the complete trust he/she had in my ability to keep them safe is a pretty humbling experience. But it’s one I wouldn’t trade for anything. Their trust is another reason I try to make sure my path is the right one.

So today, as I watch the dark of night give way to the light of morning, I think about the steps I will take before the day ends. Will they have a purpose? Will they lead in the right direction? And the footprints I leave behind–could others safely follow?