WALKING THE LAST MILE OF THE WAY

Sam Cooke (and others) sang of “the last mile of the way,” and his voice carried a wisdom deeper than melody—a quiet acknowledgment that every journey, no matter how full or fast, moves toward a final horizon. Tonight, as a year slips from our grasp, we feel that same solemn tenderness; the pages turn, the clock exhales, and we stand briefly aware that life itself is measured in such endings.

The Word of God often speaks of our days as a walk, not a sprint—footsteps laid one after another, sometimes weary, sometimes light, but always moving forward under the unseen hand of God (Psalm 119:105). The close of a year reminds us that time is not an enemy, but a steward, guiding us steadily toward completion.

For the Christian, the end is not a collapse into darkness, but a fulfillment of purpose. Paul spoke calmly of finishing his course, not with regret, but with confidence and hope (2 Timothy 4:7).

The last mile is not walked alone; Christ has already traveled it, bearing its weight, lighting its path, and waiting at its end. Just as this year concludes tonight, so one day our earthly story will conclude as well—not in loss, but in arrival, when faith becomes sight and the long walk gives way to rest (John 14:1-3).

Until then, we walk on—faithful, watchful, and unafraid—knowing that every step matters, and every ending in Christ is also a beginning.

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Lord Jesus, teach us to walk faithfully through our days, to redeem the time You have given us, and to trust You even as years and lives draw to their close. When we reach the last mile, let us find You there—faithful, welcoming, and full of grace. Amen.

BDD