One path, many sets of directions

Four guys exit the health club after their workout.

"I heard good things about this new pub," John says, "why don't we all grab a quick sandwich? My treat."

They agree and John is about to give them directions, but Jim holds up his hand.

"Wait, I'm parked a few blocks over on Center street, and my car is facing south so tell me how to get there from that direction."

"Well, I think there's construction that way," John cautions, "and if I could just tell you..."

"Don't worry," Jim says over his shoulder, "I'll figure it out. More interesting this way." And he walks away toward Center street.

Jason also walks off in a different direction. "I have to pick up a couple things from the Convenient Store first," he says, "but I'll still catch up to you in plenty of time. I can ask the people at the store for directions."

"It's kind of dangerous over by that store," John cautions, "couldn't we eat first and then you can do that later, closer to your house?" But Jason is already turning the corner.

Only Jeremy is left standing with John.

"So where is this delicious new place you heard about, John? I'll walk with you."

John smiles and points at the building directly across the street. 

"It's right there."

Jeremy half laughs and exclaims as they quickly cross the street and enter the door, "Why didn't you just tell them it was right here?! Maybe they wouldn't have gone off in their own directions and put off our time together!"

John shakes his head and smiles back. "I started to with Jim, but he just waved me off as you saw, and you know Jason--he'd much rather find his own way--especially once you try to give him directions! I worry about both of them, but they're grown-ups after all, they can think for themselves!"

Jeremy steps in and the door closes behind them as they look forward to a delicious meal and good fellowship. They never see Jason or Jim again.

"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go by it. But narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." Matthew 7:13-14

What do you believe?