"Cowboy TImes"

 The cowboy times, they still are here,

Though sometimes off the grid,

So distant from the road it seems,

They’re intentionally well-hid.

And if you’re passing through that way,

And some say, there they are,

Don’t be surprised if where they point,

Turns out to be so far.

I’ve ridden that far country,

With those who know it well,

And they don’t often get to town,

Unless to buy or sell,

Something for the herds they serve,

Or horses that they ride,

‘Course families will have their needs,

And only stores provide.

Sometimes the kids grow up out there,

And somehow take a shine,

To living in a town you see,

But most who do will find,

They miss the distant places,

With peace and quiet there,

Long for ranch tranquility,

And what they used to share.

So quick as ever quick can be,

They work to find a way,

To get back to the cowboy life,

And that’s where they will stay.

The cowboy times will never die,

As long as there’s a cow,

And someone needs to give it care,

And cowboys still know how.

“This is what the Lord God says: ‘Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls.’ But you reply, ‘No, that’s not the road we want!’” (Jeremiah 6:16, NLT)

Like the kid who grew up on the ranch and longs for town, many of us who grew up in church and knowing the Lord got distracted by the temptations of this world. It is time for us to return to the Lord and the ancient ways that we know are right. That’s what He offers and calls us to do. What will our answer be? Jeremiah said that God’s people refused the offer, and to their own detriment and destruction. The Lord calls us home to righteousness. When we cooperate, He gives rest to our souls. And that’s exactly what we need!

Lord, help us choose the ancient paths of righteousness, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Glynnis Miller, used by permission. Thanks, Glynnis, and God bless you.