"Hi, I'm Chris, and welcome to Adventures in Odyssey!"

Odyssey: the name of the conservative town with charming individuals who experienced faith-stretching tribulations during every lively episode.

If you grew up in a Christian home, and if you took occasional vacations, then the chances that you listened to "Adventures in Odyssey" are high. What else were you supposed to do on those long car rides?

"Adventures in Odyssey," a radio drama produced by Focus on the Family, exemplifies Christianity, while also addressing current issues, such racism, slavery, bullying, and crime.

So sit back and enjoy two precepts from Odyssey that positively influenced the years of my youth (and my current life).

To begin, Odyssey displayed an ice-cream filled shelter for discouraged individuals to find guidance: Whit's End. Fallen human beings of all ages articulated a need for something more, a touch from their Creator. John Avery Whittaker (widely known as "Whit"), the owner of Whit's End, offered invaluable advice and unlimited grace, of which his attitudes solely affirmed the character of Jesus Christ. Whit inspired me to not worry about others' opinions of myself; to engage in difficult (yet edifying) conversations with elderly believers; to listen to those who need support; and to ultimately pursue Jesus Christ with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

In addition to this, Odyssey conveyed imperfect characters, flawed human beings. Connie Kendall and Eugene Meltsner frequently butted heads. The brother-and-sister duo, Donna and Jimmy Barclay, were notorious for their disagreements and insults (which frequently took place during situations that were intended for relaxation). Even Whit slipped up every once in a while. Each of the characters expressed realistic personalities (sometimes a little too realistic). Odyssey's citizens transmitted that no "Christian" is unblemished. Every follower of Christ suffers from sin. After listening to various episodes, I was moved to not condemn believers around me. I realized that my responsibility lies in cherishing fellow disciples and forgiving them of their wrongdoings.

So live in your unique creativity, which reflects your Unique Creator. Lament and laugh with your friends (and even strangers) who need a compassionate and affirming face, formed in the Imago Dei. Explore the effervescence of life with the Joy of your strength by your side. Have mercy on those who have committed delinquencies. Forgive the Roman soldiers in your life who daily mock, spit, beat, and crucify you.

Let your odyssey be more than an external façade

. Let your odyssey be an internal expedition along the well-lit, narrow avenue with Friend clasping your hand with his redeeming and punctured palms...

Even when you are at your wit's end.