Road Signs

I was driving down the highway today and I started thinking about the road signs along the way. People are so used to seeing road signs that often they take them for granted.

Some signs tell us where to turn. Others tell us when to stop or that we’re going the wrong way. Road signs can tell us that there is food or gas, shelter, entertainment, or a historical site. With a little bit of calculation, you might even be able to use road signs to tell how far you’ve come and how far you have to go.

In the Bible, there are many verses related to signs - even “road signs.” Consider the following:
21 “Set up road signs;put up guideposts.Take note of the highway,the road that you take.Return, O Virgin Israel,return to your towns.” Jeremiah 31:21

This verse discusses the exiles of Judah, who are encouraged to set up “road signs” so that they will be able to find their way back. When we are traveling, it is important to know the way home and God wants the exiles to find their way back.

Sometimes, rather than telling us to leave signs along the way so that we can return, God tells us what signs to look for to know that something is coming.

“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Luke 21:25-28

It is terrific that we’ve been given all of these signs. The Bible tells us that the Son of Man is coming and we need to be prepared. Just like with the road signs I saw today on the highway, we should use the signs to be prepared.

Share this information with your children. When you are driving along, use road signs as an educational opportunity and also a ministry opportunity. Here are some ideas:

- Use mile markers to calculate mileage from your house to various destinations.
- Discuss the meanings of road signs with your children.
- Play road sign games. Let younger children find alphabet letters in order. See who can find the most unique road signs. Use road signs to teach younger children shapes (ovals, circles, squares, diamonds, etc.)
- Discuss how important it is to pay attention to road signs. Talk about safe driving for the sake of the driver and others.
- What happens if someone doesn’t pay attention to road signs? Is that dangerous? Is it prudent to be aware of signs? (Have you ever needed a bathroom and you couldn’t remember when you last saw a sign with a gas station or rest area? Should Christians be aware of the signs of Christ’s return?)
- Compare road signs along the highway with the “signs” we see in the Bible. Talk about this with your children in your own comfort level.

Have fun traveling the road and remember to watch the signs along the way!
Sonya
www.sonyahaskins.com