First Inkling

 

source
 

 The first inkling of the Abraham Backpack 

was captured in a journal entry dated June 26, 1989:

"This is a faith walk. This is your Abraham Backpack. Remember, you are a sojourner only. Sojourners carry what they need in their backpacks, and they take with them great staves to help them in steep climbs and to ward off danger. Ponder this. You have been sent to a sort of "Outdoor School of the Spirit". What should you be carrying with you from home?

"Yes, you do carry the keys with you so you can get back in when you get home. You carry food, water, personal hygiene items, a change of clothes, currency, and your guidebook. You wear a cloak and carry a staff. On your feet, you wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.

"You carry no bedding. You go where the Father has sent you and trust Him to provide you with rest."

And that's it. 

This simple journal entry still resonates.

For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.
-- Rom 11:29

He saved us and called us with a holy calling, 

not according to our own accomplishments, 

but according to his own purpose 

and the grace that was given to us in the Messiah Jesus 

before time began.
--2 Tim. 1:9

It is with this view also that we continually pray to our God for you, 

asking that He will count you worthy of His call, 

and by His mighty power fully gratify your every desire for what is truly good 

and make your work of faith complete;
--2 Thes. 1:11

Funny, though, it's difficult to find any images online with "Father Abraham" wearing a backpack!