Journal Entry: Following, With Trust and Joy

Da Nang, Vietnam

Today, I’m reflecting deeply on the simple idea of following. As I sit here in my hotel room, enjoying a rare moment of rest and reflection, I can’t help but marvel at how things have changed. Not long ago, every family trip was something Bern and I carefully planned. From booking flights, arranging transportation, budgeting for meals, preparing itineraries, and packing for everyone, to making sure every detail was accounted for — we did it all.

But this trip is different, yet somehow still like the previous trips we had.

This time, our two grown-up children, Janaye and Seth, have taken the reins. Janaye, with her gift of precision and thoughtfulness, planned out everything—from food stops and hotel bookings to the outfits we’d wear for photoshoots. She even arranged transportation with Grab and made sure our experience would be not only efficient but also memorable. Seth, with his quiet strength and dependable heart, is our protector. He ensures we’re safe, well, and cared for. Together, they’ve even contributed financially, covering hotel costs and entrance fees without hesitation.

Bern and I are simply… following.

Each morning, we receive the day’s itinerary, and all we need to do is enjoy, trust, and walk alongside them. No stress, no overthinking. Just presence. Just peace.

And that’s what stirred something deeper in me today.

What does it really mean to follow?

Following is easy when you know and trust the one you’re following.

It’s easy when you know they love you.

It’s easy when they have a plan, and that plan is good.

It’s easy when their heart is to bless you, not to burden you.

It’s easy when you’re confident they know the way and are watching over you.

And so I thought: Isn’t this the kind of following Jesus invites me to do?

Yes, He says, “Take up your cross and follow Me.”

Yes, the path may involve sacrifice, surrender, and transformation.

But at its core, following Jesus is not a burden—it’s a gift.

He knows the way. He has already walked it.

He provides. He protects. He prepares everything ahead of time.

He’s not leading me into danger, but into life.

He’s not asking me to figure everything out, but to trust.

This trip reminded me of the beauty of surrender when you’re in good hands.

With Janaye and Seth leading this journey, I’ve felt peace.

With Jesus leading my life, I can feel peace too—every single day.

Following becomes restful when:

• You’re no longer trying to be in control of everything.

• You realize the One leading you knows you better than you know yourself.

• You trust that even if the road gets rough, His intentions for you are still good.

• You understand that He walks with you—not just ahead of you.

I’ve been able to rest well on this trip—not just sleep, but rest. Deep, soul-level rest. No schedules to chase. No stress to juggle. Just presence. And perhaps that’s what Jesus meant when He said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened”.

Following doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be peaceful, joyful, and even fun, because the One I follow is not only my Savior, but my Shepherd, my Friend, and my Loving Father.

So today, I thank God for this gentle reminder—through my own children, no less—that I don’t always need to lead. I just need to trust and follow.

And in doing so, I will find rest for my soul.