• The oldest map ever discovered was drawn on a clay tablet in 2300 B.C. It pictures a mountain-lined valley in Babylonia.
• A thousand years later, in 1300 B.C., the Egyptians began making maps. But the Greeks were the first to make accurate maps. And the Romans used those maps to conquer nations and countries and collect taxes.
• The Muslims were the next "map makers." But they made maps for a different purpose. Their faith demands that they face their "holy city" when they pray. They needed to know the location of Mecca so they could face and bow in that direction when they prayed.
• The people of Europe began their map-making in the Middle Ages. They made their maps by reading the Bible.
• But no nation or people made maps of the world until the 1400's A.D.
• Today, no one would begin a journey without a map or GPS. Yet, we are forever moving into the "unknown" and need detailed guidance and directions.
• A Psalmist once prayed, "Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness...make straight Your way before me."
• Our Lord knows our end from the very beginning. He is all-wise, never-failing, ever-present and constantly protecting us from harm's way. He wants to be our "travel consultant" on life's journey and will personally counsel us on the safest and most satisfying paths.
• With God above us, the Savior beside us and the Holy Spirit within us, we will end our journey with Him.
• Prayer: Thank You, Heavenly Father, for the plan You have established for each of us. May we follow it willingly. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
• Scripture for Today: Psalm 5:8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies-- make your way straight before me.