Traveling Companions

From Pastor Quentin Wallace

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. — Romans 8:28

As we move into the holiday season, I’m reminded of the classic movie Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. In it, two very different men—Neal Page, a tightly wound marketing executive, and Del Griffith, a warm-hearted but talkative shower curtain ring salesman—are both desperately trying to get home for Thanksgiving.

What follows is a comedy of travel disasters: canceled flights, broken-down cars, missed trains, and a series of mishaps that would test anyone’s patience. Yet through all the chaos, these strangers discover something deeper—they learn to lean on each other, to laugh through hardship, and to form an unlikely friendship.

When I think about their journey, I see a powerful reflection of our own walk as followers of Christ.

1. We’re All Traveling Together

As Christians, we’re companions on the journey of faith. We may come from different backgrounds, have different opinions, and even move at different speeds—but we’re all headed in the same direction, following Christ.

2. The Journey Isn’t Always Smooth

Like Neal and Del, we’ll face delays, breakdowns, and unexpected detours. Life won’t always go the way we plan. But our faith keeps us moving forward, trusting that God is guiding our path—even when the route takes us places we never expected to go.

3. God Brings Good Out of Every Challenge

Sometimes what looks like an inconvenience turns into a blessing. Romans 8:28 reminds us that “all things work together for good.” Even a delay, disagreement, or disappointment can become the very thing that shapes us, strengthens us, or introduces us to new people and perspectives.

So as we approach Thanksgiving and Christmas, let’s keep our hearts open:

• The turkey might burn.
• Someone might arrive late—or not at all.
• Plans might fall through.

But God’s plan never fails. Be patient. Be kind. Keep traveling in love. You never know what divine connections God is working out behind the scenes.

This season, let’s be more thankful at Thanksgiving and more giving at Christmas. And above all, let’s remember the greatest, most selfless gift ever given—Christ, our salvation.

No matter how we travel—by planes, trains, or automobiles—God is in control. He’ll get us to our emotional, spiritual, and physical destinations right on time… and perhaps with a few new friends along the way.

Happy Thanksgiving & Merry Christmas!

Pastor Quentin Wallace

A Prayer for the Journey

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for being our constant companion on this journey of life. When our plans fall apart, remind us that Yours never do. When we face delays, teach us patience. When we meet new people along the way, open our hearts to see Your purpose in every encounter.

As we move into this season of gratitude and giving, help us to travel with thankful hearts and generous spirits. May we find joy not just in the destination, but in the journey itself—trusting that You are working all things together for our good.

Keep us safe, keep us loving, and keep us mindful that wherever we go, You are already there. In the name of Jesus, our Savior and faithful guide, we pray—Amen.