The ship was packed with all their earthly possessions. The sails were ready to unfurl, catching the wind of adventure. The prayers had been prayed, decisions made.

This would be the most difficult journey of their lives. The only thing left to do was step onto the deck … of the Mayflower.

I picture it in my head: women in long skirts and bonnets, children scurrying about, men with excitement and determination flowing through their veins.

In 1620, 102 courageous souls boarded the great wooden ship that would carry them to a New World. After 66 days and countless obstacles, they arrived at Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to begin new lives.

Reading “The Landing of the Pilgrims” by James Daugherty has stirred my heart and mind. It provides great insight into the history-making and life-changing events that occurred over 400 years ago.

Mr. Daugherty shares that William Bradford, a passenger of the Mayflower and future governor of the Plymouth colony, felt he had a calling on his life at an early age. Determined to live according to the Bible, he separated himself from the Church of England. William married Dorothy May a few years before their pilgrimage to Cape Cod. Daugherty tells that Dorothy was against the trip to America and hoped William would change his mind. Seeking religious freedom, William would not be dissuaded. Unfortunately, Dorothy was one of 14 wives who perished that first year. Eighteen wives had boarded the Mayflower. Only half of the 102 travelers survived.

Soaking up Pilgrim stories has me thinking of Noah and his family. They had obeyed the word of the Lord, leaving the past behind and laser-focused on the future. They, too, had boarded a large wooden ship for an intense voyage. While the Pilgrims sailed for two months, Noah voyaged for five (Genesis 7:11, 8:4). Landing was the first victory. The journey was just beginning.

There are many other pilgrimages shared in the Bible – true stories of courage and overcoming. Abraham traveled from his country, his people and his father’s household to the land God showed him. The Israelites left Egypt bound for the Promised Land. Ruth left Moab for an uncertain future with Naomi. Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem and then made a sudden flight to Egypt for safety.

When we follow God’s leading, it may be through valleys, over steep mountains or across raging seas. It’s almost always out of our comfort zone. Today, He calls us to follow Him near and far, using us to tell others of His love. Is He leading, stirring you toward uncharted territory? Will you have the courage to take that step?

When He calls, we can cling to the God of Noah, Abraham, Ruth, Mary, Joseph and the Pilgrims. We can find strength in the words He gave to Joshua: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

I’m so thankful for those courageous Pilgrims. And not just at Thanksgiving.