What Thomas the Tank Engine Teaches :.

"Let's make tracks to great destinations," exclaims Mateo my two year old nephew.

"Tracks to great destinations?" I puzzle in reply.

"Yes, let's make tracks to great destinations!"

"That's what Thomas says," his mom politely informs me.

"Oh Thomas, of course, tracks to great destinations. Now it makes sense."

The first time I heard little Mateo say this statement of such confidence I was floored. How could a two year old make such a bold imaginative exclamation? Where did he learn such a thing? Did he even know what he was saying? And for some reason he so easily knew I would join him in his play. Hmmmmm.

Could I follow Mateo's lead and say to my friends with a hand extended, "Let's make tracks to great destinations, knowing they would be willing to join me?"

For all who know Thomas and his friends--Thomas is a little blue tank engine who is not to be confused with the "Little Engine that Could"--he always seems to work things out in community with a moral lesson entwined. There is never a dull moment for Thomas, with something or someone always around the bend. He is always "making tracks to great destinations" whether they are in another town or a new relationship.

"Let's make tracks to great destinations" has become a mantra of sorts for me. The tracks are there for us, laid down by a heavenly rail crew, leading to someplace great and wondrous. With Mateo, he is always ready to make tracks, to sit down on the floor with Brio railways and a whole slew of train cars, creating pathways on the carpet, going to places yet unnamed, chatting and conversing the entire time. With me these days, I am noticing the wonder of questions and answers, of conversations with new and old friends about possible great destinations before us. The conversations resemble play. They are fun, joy-filled and open to what may come next.

"Let's make tracks to great destinations" seems fitting for this time. Jesus called to his would be disciples, "Come and follow." I don't think this is much different then Thomas' call to his friends.

So friends...are you up for a journey? Let's make tracks to great destinations!

Choo, choo.....

Comments

[gloria]

Everyone seems so happy, cheerful and ready for the trip. I feel like a sad hobo walking the tracks. But this blog helped me to take my eyes off my worn and tattered shoes and look up. "Look up hobo girl. The train is a comin'!"

[H. Jane]

You're bold and free.

[Vicki]

All aboard!

[Tonya]

Tracks to great destinations...so many wonderful places to explore...hearts, communities, relationships, ways of being present...and all guided by the Spirit to keep us "on track." I absolutely love to travel...

[pam]

oh yes! ~ My track shoes are laced up, and I'm up for the journey!

[JaimeG]

Choo choo, whoo hoo!! Let's make tracks! And the children shall lead them...
Can't wait to connect!

[jjb]

Of all the things you have posted, I never expected to open up your blog and see Thomas! :) Thomas has been a family member for a while - and as we get ready to celebrate a 4th birthday, more Thomas friends should be arriving in the mail soon. Currently a watertower is requested - cause the engines are thirsty! (Out of the mouth of babes . . .)