I am a person who likes to walk. I enjoy the outdoors. When I was growing up I walked or rode my bike to most places that I went to.
I still do a lot of walking (no longer bike riding). I walk not only because it is good for my legs and health but because I enjoy it. I see so much more than if I was riding in a car.
I live in the desert. I try to walk most days and as I do I feel close to creation that way. I notice the millipedes crossing the dusty road, the steers, the goats, the horse, the jackrabbits and cottontails, the desert plants. At times I stop and pick up a rock that stands out to me, or I bend down and get a better look at a bug. The sunrises and sunsets are gorgeous and the starry night skies are beautiful. The coyotes sing their songs (which are not that beautiful).
This year I went to South Dakota for an 8-day silent retreat. I went on a couple of walks each day. There was beautiful vegetation, and grass that we don’t have here. I saw wild turkeys, lots of bunnies, and it rained which was a nice change.
One day when I was out on a walk, I stopped and sat on a bench and stared out at the beautiful variety of trees in the green fields. As I watched, the wind suddenly kicked up. It was so interesting because the wind blew through some of the trees but not through the trees right next to them. Then the wind would come again and blow in other trees right there but not through others near them. Some leaves were shaking while others were still as could be. Once in awhile wind would come and blow through them all. I was intrigued by this and said, “Lord, what are you saying to me through this?”
I felt like it was a parable. The Holy Spirit blows where and when it wills. Sometimes it is in one area of my life or community life but not in another. At other times it blows in another area and not in the other. Yet there are times when the Spirit is moving all over the place.
I felt the need to be aware and in tune with what the Holy Spirit is doing and to move along with Him. What the Spirit is doing today may not be what the Spirit is doing tomorrow. I need to watch and be alert and jump on board with the Holy Spirit. Then it will be God’s work and not just me spinning my wheels.
All this came from my walk and observation.
I know many of you live in a city. I have walked many times in the city. There is still so much to enjoy as you walk, whether you are alone or with your family.
So don’t miss out – Go enjoy a good walk! It’s great therapy.
God bless you,
Mary Ann / Mother Hen
Anita Infante says
Thank you beautiful message of discerning what God was showing you at that moment. It can apply to others.