I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the desolate pit, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. Psalms 40:1-2
Recently, I had taken the dogs for a walk at Natural Resource Trust in Easton. We typically do slight variations on the same trail, but I decided to explore a new path this day. We headed out on our adventure with vim and vigor. We were filled with the excitement of chartering new territory. All went well until, on the return, we had to cross a meadow. After recent rains, the ground was saturated. With wet earth sucking at my boots, it became difficult walking in places struggling against the natural resistance. After a while muddy and legs a little achy but otherwise unscathed, we made it safely back to the car.
Life is like that; most of the time, we walk on a well-worn, familiar path. Sure, there are some peaks and valleys, but sometimes the bogs are a surprise. It's hard to tell, the ground looks solid, but when we take those first few steps, we soon realize we are in trouble. Sin and despair sucking at our boots, we grow weary. When we call for help, though, God comes. He has been listening for us and comes to our rescue. We reach out, grasping his hand, and he pulls us back up onto the solid ground.
Loving God, we thank you for listening for our cries and coming to our aid. When we tire of the journey and become bogged down by sin and despair, you are there, waiting, arms outstretched. Lord, please help us today remain on your concrete ground and be vigilant for changing terrain and distractions. Help us be ever faithful to you, placing our trust in the path you have set for us. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Peace,
Pastor Tim
