The ancient pathway
By CHRISTINA OLKA
Freedom Director, South Bay Church, christina@southbay.cc
There is a secret pathway we used to take behind the railroad tracks while we were growing up. I am confident it is still secret. GPS cannot find it or locate it. It is an unmarked road, but it will get you to the other side of town faster than any other option. You can only travel it by bike or by foot, but the pathway is good, the pathway is old and the pathway leads to the other side.
Often times the old way of doing things can obstruct the new way. But sometimes the old way of doing things is precisely what is needed. That secret pathway is not-so-secret for the locals, but for those unaware of it, surely they miss out — often taking the long way around town.
When it comes to words that wound, name-calling that steals identity and generational patterns that pass on pain, there is an ancient pathway that not only heals but also makes getting to the other side of pain easier — the art of blessing.
In one of the few surviving ancient cultures around today, the ancient systems passed down to modern time was the art of blessing. Blessing was used as a form of child rearing, relationship building and restoration of wounds. Blessing was seen as a normal part of life that was verbal, appropriately affectionate, and life-giving in the day-to-day exchange of life.
Blessing has the power to give a new way of living, a new identity and a new generational pattern. People need blessing, everyone — no matter how self-reliant — is in need of verbal blessing.
Blessing takes the reality of our lives, which is often toil and affliction, and transforms it to healing and blessing.
Blessing assures, affirms, hopes and approves of people. Blessing speaks true identity and future. It lets us communicate to one another in a way that helps us forget about the pain of the past and to stand in the affirmation of the good of who we are.
Blessing is always multipliable. Once received it demands that it be given once again. Verbal blessing is received precisely for the opportunity to pass it on, and continue the pathway of blessing for generations to come.
Stepping into a new way of living demands courage and bravery. It must be intentional and it absolutely will be transformational.
Freedom teaching: “Breaking Barriers” is the theme at Freedom Ministry every Monday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m., through Nov. 21 at South Bay Church, 13498 U.S. 301 S., Riverview. Join the group for teaching and small-group focus to break down the barriers to living a free life. To learn more about the Freedom Ministry at South Bay Church, visit livemyfreedom.com.