Lothlorien & Mordor

Are the blessings of our relative wealth and security truly blessings? Have our American lives made us into Christians who expect that following Christ will take us only and always through the Forest of Lothlorien, with all its verdant beauty and comforts?

Or, are we still willing to follow, in self-denying obedience, his Providence if takes us sometimes into Mordor, the land of fire and trial? Do we part company with him at those times when the Black Gate comes into view?

Frodo Baggins’ strength was made perfect in his weakness; he was determined to follow and complete the quest, regardless of the personal cost. Can we strive to complete the quest Christ has given us, wherever it takes us, for his sake?