Pitching My Tent

A story circulated some years ago about Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend and student Watson, who were together on a camping trip. After a good meal, they lay down for the night and went to sleep. Some hours later, Holmes awoke and nudged his faithful friend awake.

“Watson,” he said, “look up at the sky and tell me what you see.”

“I see millions and millions of stars,” Watson replied. Continuing to ponder the question, he went on to say, “Astronomically, it tells me that there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, I observe that Saturn is in Leo. Horologically, I deduce that the time is approximately a quarter past three. Theologically, I can see that God is all-powerful and that we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, I suspect that we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. What does the sky tell you?”

Holmes was silent for a minute before speaking. “Watson, you idiot!” he said with a measure of restraint. “The sky tells me that someone has stolen our tent!”

I do not know much about camping. I did not grow up in a family that camped…outdoors (which I suppose is the point of camping!). However, even I can deduce that one of the most critically important resources needed at the campgrounds is some sort of shelter. The location one chooses to pitch his tent is perhaps the most important decision to be made on a camping adventure. That decision will affect every other aspect of the experience. Which is precisely why the description of Isaac’s actions in Genesis 26:25 are so significant. “So he built an altar there and called upon the name of the LORD and pitched his tent there. And there Isaac’s servants dug a well.”

As we read of Isaac’s journey of faith, we happen upon this incident in which the Lord speaks a word of revelation, promise, and encouragement to him. The Lord reminds Isaac that he is in the right place. God will bless him. Isaac need not be afraid. And so, Isaac determines to set up his residence at this place where God has revealed Himself. Isaac will “pitch his tent” in the presence of God’s revelation. He decides that whatever may come of his life, whatever may happen beyond his control, and especially in the choices he makes, he will live by faith in the presence of Yahweh. The language of his decision is significant in the context of the culture in which he was living. Isaac lived in a time in which the location of one’s residence was not only the difference between abundance and poverty; it was the difference between life and death.

The Scriptures attest to just how important one’s choice in where he “pitches his tent” is. The Psalmist writes, “I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness” (Psalm 84:10). In closing his beloved sermon on the mount, Jesus shared in a parable the value of choosing to build one’s life on the “rock” of His revelation rather than the “sand” of one’s own way (Matthew 7:24-27). In his letter to the Corinthian church, Paul compares this brief life to that of a temporary shelter as it compares to our eternal dwelling. In so doing, he resolutely concludes, “So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please [Christ]” (2 Corinthians 5:9).

In like manner, I have chosen to “pitch my tent” with Christ. I have chosen to follow Him with all I am and have. And I am learning anew each day that this is a daily, repetitive decision I must make. In explaining this decision, there are at least three conclusions as to why I could pitch my tent in no other place.

1. The irresistible evidence of the Scriptures.

The Bible contains historically accurate and irrefutable evidence for the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This account has withstood the test of time and harsh criticism from those who would discard it as false. While faith will always be required, the ample evidence for God’s revelation through His Word is both reasonable and verifiable. There is no other document in the history of the world upon which one’s eternal soul can rest secure. For those that might question this conclusion, no other book has provided me more answers than Josh McDowell’s Evidence that Demands a Verdict.

2. The irrepressible witness of the Church.

The flaws of the local church are quite obvious. Many refuse to participate alongside such so-called hypocrites. Yet, for all of her failings, there is no comparison in all of the world as a force for redemption. The countless people of all generations with which I have had the privilege of serving alongside are a testament to the reality of God’s power. In small and large congregations throughout history, even ones of which I have been a part, individuals from all walks of life prove the life-changing power of the gospel.

3. The unmistakable transformation of my life.

It was nearly three decades ago that Christ found me, a confused and sinful teenager in desperate need of a Savior. From that night in which I placed my trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection for my salvation, I have never been the same. Yet, I could not have possibly known at that time just how much in my life needed changing. Everyday I become more aware of how far from Christ I am. But still, His redemption is new each day. Along with Jesus’ first followers, I am left saying, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:68-69).

Pitching my Tent with Christ,

Jason