Walking in Faith: A Journey of Perseverance and Obedience
In a world filled with hustle and bustle, where we often prioritize comfort and convenience, it’s refreshing to come across stories of individuals who embark on extraordinary journeys, guided by faith and a deep sense of purpose. Rick McKinney and his wife Jane’s remarkable adventure, chronicled in their book “And So We Walked,” exemplifies the power of faith, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to a divine calling.
Rick and Jane McKinney began their journey not as seasoned athletes or adventurers, but as individuals who believed in the importance of obedience to a higher calling. Their incredible 2006 journey across America on foot was not just a physical endeavor; it was a testament to their unwavering faith. They believed that God had called them to walk from Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles to Washington, DC, a trek spanning over 3,000 miles. But it was not simply a casual stroll; they committed to covering an astounding 20 miles a day for six months.
One might think that a journey of this magnitude would test their faith in profound ways, and it certainly did. Rick and Jane’s faith faced its most significant challenges in the form of physical hardships. Jane battled painful blisters from the very first day, enduring excruciating discomfort every step of the way. Their commitment to walking 20 miles daily meant their bodies never had a chance to fully recover. Their muscles ached, and their joints groaned, but their determination held firm.
It’s during these moments of physical agony that their faith in God’s provision was put to the ultimate test. They often questioned whether they could endure the pain, whether their faith was strong enough to carry them through, and whether God’s supernatural strength would see them to the end.
Rick and Jane McKinney’s story is not merely about a long walk across America; it’s about obedience to a divine calling. They had committed to saying “yes” to God’s plan 50 years ago, long before they knew the specifics of the journey. Their willingness to trust God unconditionally and live in obedience to His calling is a powerful reminder to us all.
“And So We Walked” is not just a travelogue; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and determination. It’s a story of the individuals the McKinneys encountered along their journey—people who needed faith, encouragement, and kindness. Their encounters with strangers and the impact they made on the lives of those they met are inspiring and heartwarming.
Reading the McKinneys’ story is an invitation to examine our own lives and consider how we can live with a greater sense of purpose and obedience to our calling, whatever that may be. It reminds us that we don’t need to embark on epic journeys to make a difference. Sometimes, a simple act of kindness, a helping hand, or a word of encouragement can have a profound impact on someone’s life.
In a world that often prioritizes self-interest and comfort, the story of Rick and Jane McKinney serves as a powerful reminder that faith, obedience, and perseverance can lead us to the extraordinary. Their journey was not just a physical feat but a testament to the belief that living in obedience to a higher calling can lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment.