Going With

One of the interesting expressions of speech here in Wisconsin is the phrase, "go with". The phrase is often used like this, "I'm/We're going to (insert destination here), do you want to go with?" The person or people with whom one will "go with" is assumed in the subject section of the question. I appreciate the efficiency of the shortcut, even if I still haven't been able to incorporate it into my own way of speaking.  But I suspect there is something more going on than simple efficiency. Whenever I have had that question asked of me, I've often exprienced it as an offer of hospitality and inclusion -- a way of saying, "I'd/We would be pleased if you'd join us on our journey."

To travel together in the company of a friend is to add a new dimension to an errand. There's the opportunity for a shared experience, for conversation, for deepening the relationship -- whether the desitnation is the shore of Lake Michigan, the museum or the dairy aisle of a grocery store. To keep company is the way we get to know each other, experience each other's individuality and learn about "who we are" in the process.

This evening, I was reading from a book of prayers when I ran across the following benediction:

May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you:
wherever he may send you;
may he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm;
may he bring you home rejoicing: at the wonders he has shown you;
may he bring you home rejoicing: once again into our doors.

To be a follower of Jesus is to be in the company of the Risen Christ (whether we are aware of it or not); and to be privileged to be a part of the community of the Baptized, who are our fellow pilgrims through the changes and chances of this life. I suspect if there was a Wisconsin translation of the final words of Jesus in Matthew's Gospel it would go like this: "..And remember, I'll go with always, even to the end of time."

In a world so chock full of loneliness and isolation, that's Good News!