Charted

What is Charted?

Like a master surveyor, Jesus gives us clear directions to find a fulfilling, purpose-filled relationship with Himself - a map to the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Charted is a daily devotional written by the junior class at Fountainview Academy (Class of 2019). Based on the book Steps to Christ, this book explores the path to the Originator and Provider of Genuine Joy. We don't have to be confused about the way. The certainty is in the journey: divinely Charted.

Desires for goodness and holiness are right as far as they go; but
if you stop here, they will avail to nothing. Many will be lost while
hoping and desiring to be Christians. – Steps to Christ, pp. 47-48
The scrumptious smell of happiness wafted through the air
as I entered Lita’s house. What is on the menu today? I wondered.
I could always count on a delicious meal when my family visited my
grandmother’s home. Her soups, savories, and various starters are
always sublime. Considered by many to be quite a chef, she is a
master of all things kitchen. All things that is, except desserts.
“I’m trying a new recipe today!” Lita proclaimed as our family
entered the kitchen. “It’s an apple cake,” she added, wiping the flour
onto her apron. Eyeing the treat with anticipation, I watched as she
placed the tin into the hot oven.
Dinnertime finally came around. Course after course of the
mouthwatering meal was placed onto the table. Hot lentil soup, freshly
baked bread, and zucchini soufflé adorned the table before us. Just
as we thought we couldn’t eat another mouthful, Lita announced that
dessert was on its way. She carefully carried the cake to the table
with gentle delicacy. Setting it down on a heat mat, we surveyed the
situation in front of us. The cake was flat. A slice was cut and passed
my way, so I politely took a fork and braved a bite. It wasn’t terrible,
just flat.
As the cake was passed around, Lita started to explain. “The
recipe asked for a lot of sugar,” she stated, “but that’s not healthy, so
I used honey instead. It asked for butter too! But olive oil is a wiser
choice.” The more she revealed her alternatives to the recipe, the
more we understood how the apple pancake came to be. Laughing it
off, I took another bite and began to think: How often do I strive to be
holy and perfect? I read God’s Word like a recipe and understand all
the steps required to be a true Christian. However, many times I think
my recipe is a much better idea, so I substitute some truth for lies or
swap some humility for pride. My desires to be good are great as far
as they go, but I need to be willing to follow His recipe, word for word.