Winging My Way

My Mom’s family often enjoyed spending some time singing on occasions when a large group of us was together. A couple of the family’s favorite songs were Southern Gospel songs about Heaven like Paradise Valley, When the Roll is Called Up Yonder, and I’ll Fly Away. There were others that we sang as a family that I’ve rarely heard in any other context. Among these was a song called I’m Winging My Way Back Home. The sentiment of the song, like many others, is that those who are singing it long for their home in Heaven. However, I find the thought of “winging my way” to get there concerning.

Perhaps the original writer was using the phrase differently than I use it to describe something I’m doing without preparation, just hoping for a good outcome, but I don’t believe we are called to improv our way through Christian living. Rather, our faith provides us with a clear guide through Scripture and through the teachings and life of Jesus Christ. The Bible is a living text, meant to direct our actions, decisions, and interactions with others. From the Ten Commandments to the Sermon on the Mount and beyond, the principles laid out in God’s word are specifically designed to lead us toward a life that reflects God's love and righteousness. We should steadfastly follow God’s Word and pursue His Will as we live for Him, as we love others, and as we serve in the church. We are not winging our way.