And the day God breathed upon your still life, stirring into being the green leaf and the flower, bud upon the branch and light
upon your soul. Here you felt the earth’s air on your petals and your leaves, and squinted into sunlight, gazing high for heaven
until you felt the gardener’s hand gently turning soil and soul, and nurturing you, bud in radiant sun.
Cascading rain absorbed in warm earth turning, heaven of fragrance. What is that sound in the wind and dazzling light?
Oh, the sweet sound of your delight in God. Sometimes it is like the sound of running laughter.

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Sun and Ice

It was a little after 7am this morning as I stood at the edge of Purgatory Park preparing for multiple circuits, each loop a pleasant 1.23 miles with modest elevation changes to keep me from being a total slough. With the coming sunrise and 11F in temperature I figured I better get moving. How would today’s run compare to my skating rink of trails two days ago? I knew immediately. It would be much more tedious, much, much more tedious. This morning’s run consisted of 70% ice, smooth flows, and for the most part, not even level but for a prayer – a serious challenge just to stay upright. I spent the next 5 miles, a bit over 4 laps, looking for any grit or grass or dirt for traction. No tumbles but a few almosts. I was so thankful. As the morning sun advanced in the sky, I noticed that the ice was getting progressively more slick and dangerous. I decided at 5 miles that I would call it a run and go find that treasured first cup of morning coffee. (Note to self - my hydration pack water tube freezes at 11F and there is nothing to drink.)

One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple. (Psalm 27:4)

Reflecting on my morning run, well - more of a morning shuffle and slide really, I considered the benefits. More difficult challenges like a few days ago, more careful navigation across ice flows and hard irregular frozen chunks of trail, near crashes and risks of injury, first day’s light in a glorious sunrise, blue sky cathedral overhead, friendly exchanges with a few passersby, and the abiding companionship of God. I don’t know about you, but this sounds pretty terrific! It was not what I had planned or expected but it was very good.

Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession... (Hebrews 3:1) Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. (Hebrews 12:3)

As I look to the remainder of my day, my prayer is that I can worship and adore Him, see and embrace Him in the needs of others, and ever consider Him. Oh, that I might run true; that I might run faithfully to His glory. Friend, Come run with me. These trails go on for a ways and we can help each other over the hard parts. Together we can find Him wonderful!

1 comment:

Abbey von Gohren said...

"shuffle and slide" - that made me laugh! i had a great outing yesterday morning, but still problems with shin splints, always with the first couple of miles. went for a swim in the evening though, which loosened things up.