Why did the chicken cross the road?

Why did the chicken cross the road? This timeless question never seems to lose its luster. Presumably since the answers to this age-old dilemma are quite plentiful. As we debate over the answer to this question, keep in mind that the outcome is derived from none other than, “a bird brain.” Does he just want to get to the other side? Maybe it is much too far to walk around. Or could it be to prove to a skunk that it can be done?

Since these possibilities are somewhat mundane, I thought I would seek answers from a few ancient wise theologians. Saint Augustine, who crossed roads with many Chistian’s, said this about the question at hand… “Well, he was a bad egg from the moment he was laid.” John Calvin gives an analysis of how he sees it, “The chicken is thus predestined to cross the road.” Then I couldn’t help but to ask Martin Luther.  He adds, “The chicken is justified in crossing the road by faith alone, holding fast to 95 reasons not to pay tolls to big bird.”

Probably too many “chicken” nuggets of information. How am I going to find the truth when these erratic answers are ruffling my feathers? I’m sure if I sought wisdom in today’s world, a free-range mentality would unveil a whole new set of cackles.

Why must we focus on the “why”

Even though this is all in good fun, it made me realize how complex asking one simple question can reveal such a myriad of workable quips. We might do well to look beyond the humor and focus on the truth that the chicken did in fact cross the road. Does it really matter why? The reality of the chicken crossing the road, justifies whatever situation in turn led to its decision. For whatever reason that may be.

How about you?  Have you crossed any roads lately? It could be one of many roads including recovery, goals, or fulfillment. Truth to be told, there are a ton of roads that will be crossed at some point in your life. Therefore, if someone would ask, “why did you cross the road…?” Just the fact of crossing that road justifies the “why.”

Cross the road to Jesus

God is waiting for you to cross another one right now, (Jeremiah 6:16). He won’t ask why. He just wants you to cross the road and follow Him, (John 14:6). Following Jesus down the Romans path to salvation. Including constructions zones of repentance (Romans 3:23). Avoiding deadly detours (Romans 6:23). And keeping the navigation set on Jesus for your salvation, (Romans 10:9). Then you will be prepared to answer the question, “why did you cross the road?” With only one answer to give. To get to the other side. The side where Jesus will give you hope and a future, (Jeremiah 29:11). The side where Jesus bestows His grace of forgiveness upon you, (Ephesians 1:7). And best of all, the side of the road that will provide you with a promise of eternal life with Him, (John 3:16).

Dear Lord, thank you for showing me the “why” when you took me under your wing.

Amen.

Jeremiah 6:16
John 14:6
Romans 3:23
Romans 6:23
Romans 10:9
Jeremiah 29:11
Ephesians 1:7
John 3:16