Stories of our Lives, Part 3

Week 3: The Quest.

Christopher Booker describes the story arc of “The Quest” as the story of setting out toward something of great value, facing the unknown, being challenged in ways that test and refine us, and returning changed.

But what is that something for us? A literal mission? A moral imperative? An inner longing? A new direction? Whatever it is, the story we are living has its own quests, its own callings toward a value-driven movement and change.

Using two examples, we explored aspects of the quest: 1) the story of Jesus sending the disciples in groups to teach, heal, help, and live the love that they’d been learning for years illustrates them relying on nothing but the hospitality of strangers and each other, with the expectation that not everything will be as we imagined : a quest defined by vulnerability, companionship, and purpose. 2) The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring lays out another example with Frodo stepping forward to say “I will take the ring to Mordor… though I do not know the way.” Our quests are never sure. We know we need to continue seeking, even though we have more questions than answers. And yet we know that none can complete the Quest alone: the way is shared, fluid, and grounded in mutual trust.

No matter what unknown is before you, take comfort. Nobody has all the skills and tools they need at the outset. They are revealed within us. The way is shared, the treasure is to be found along the way, even if it’s not the one we set out seeking. 

Questions for Reflection

1. What Quest are you on right now? What are you pursuing, searching for, finding your way toward?
2. Who are your companions or What companions can you seek?
3. What gifts do you bring to the journey?
4. What unknowns are you facing?
5. What courage are you needing?
6. What value-purpose is calling you forward?

Be Part of the Conversation 

Feel free to leave a comment about whether these questions were helpful or any of your thoughts as you reflected.