With the addition of the dual analog sticks to the PlayStation controller, gamers finally had more than one way to control their character in the game… either the classic directional pad or the new “thumbstick”. But that freedom of choice didn’t last long… shortly after this innovation arrived, games like Ape Escape launched that REQUIRED players to not only possess a new controller with dual analog sticks but also to exclusively use these thumbsticks for movement. At the time it felt like a forced upgrade, limiting us from participating unless we chose to change the way we play, but now the idea of playing a 3D platformer without an analog stick feels archaic if not downright impossible. It wasn’t just a better way to play, it was the only way to play.

The path of following Christ may feel limiting to us compared to the “control” that we have been accustomed to over the choices we would make in life, but His way contains the exclusive path to experiencing joy that transcends our pain, enjoying peace that can never be stolen, and receiving a love that is eternal. While receiving the benefits of all of His promises does require us to submit to His way of playing the game and leaving our old ways behind, it also unlocks an entirely new dimension to our lives… His Spirit living within us, making the impossible possible.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6

From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” John 6:66-68

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