Hills

 

I am musing about...

Hills

Recently, my hubby and I took advantage of a gorgous fall afternoon and hit the Kankakee River Trail on our bikes. It was lovely. It meandered through cool woods and along the river, through a state park, over a suspension bridge, past a camp ground. It was not your typical rail to trail ride (which we also enjoy), but provided more diverse scenery and landscape appeal. And it had hills. Not that many. Not that bad. Really. But it was not, well flat.

And about half way through, my left pedal broke. Fell off, almost. Other then the bar part. So I could still ride it, but it was somewhat uncomfortable and not as effective. I am one of those riders that prefer the flat grade. When whizzing down a hill (yes, its fun!), I am aware of the reality that I will need to climb it on my way back. It kind of has a way of stealing the thrill a bit, you know?

I think most of us appreciate it when our life is rolling along smoothly. No hills to climb. No big challenges ahead. Just, you know, easy going. But life is not like that is it? At least not for long.

The hills come. The challenges, the issues, the concerns. The nature of the hills vary. The severity of the incline and the length of the climb change with each bump in the road along the way. But they all require more concerted effort, some "slowing down" and likely some pain.

But as we pedal on, we know that we are building spiritual muscle that will serve us well in the long run. We are adding sinews of character and fortitude. We learn to breath heavier prayers to our Heavenly Father, recognizing our need for His sustenance and strength.

And when we reach the top, we are often rewarded with a lovely view, a new and welcome perspective. And then comes the joy ride down, the exhileration of having attained a new height of understanding and a greater appreciation for what this walk in the Spirit has to offer, more deeply bonded and in love  with the One who took us to the next level of spiritual growth and reliance.

Eventually, we find ourselves coasting along once again, content on the straightaway, but possibly growing bored or slack or maybe even spiritually lazy. Our relationship with the One whe paves our trail may becomes less intense as we find ourself less likely to look ahead to our Leader and our Guide upon whom we rely.

So, when we find ourselves facing the next hill, let's buckle on our helmet of salvation and gird ourselves in the strength of the Lord, until we find ourselves once again, coasting 

                                                                                                        down

                                                                                                                   the other

                                                                                                                                 side.