Muddy Paths

When hiking on a warm spring day there was much to be thankful for. Enjoying the clean air, the clear blue sky and the sun’s kiss on our skin was a fine start. The splendor of nature brought peace to our thoughts as we enjoyed the world around us. The sound of an eagles cry rang across the sky and we paused watching the wind rush through the trees.  Robins and sparrows darted here and there in search of nesting material. Cresting a ridge the view was amazing. In the valley bellow a large bull elk bugled, the sound echoing across the hills. We gradually descended to the stream and took a short break. A doe and fawn drank from the other side but didn’t linger. It seemed the perfect time for lunch and we enjoyed the respite. All in all it was a wonderful day. When afternoon clouds moved in we were unconcerned, as thundershowers were normal.

Later in the day, after surprisingly strong winds and heavy rainfall we head back toward the trailhead. Our clothing wet and boots soggy the muddy terrain made the going ruff. The soil contained a lot of clay and it stuck with increasing amounts with every step. The extra effort to make minimal progress and stay upright was exhausting. The five mile journey back to our truck was torture. We were bushed and the sun dropping behind the trees when we arrived. Setting on the tailgate and removing our boots was more challenging than expected. The laces were caked with mud and leaves. Rocks had wedged themselves tightly in the soles. Removal of our boots required a joint effort. We hurried on our way as it was a two hour drive back home and we were starving! All that extra effort had zapped our strength.  Very cold, tired, dirty and worn out, we stopped at the first fast food drive through we could find, grateful for the renewed energy.
 

Although the story above is fiction, days like these do happen.  The circumstances may vary but we all walk on slippery paths at one time or another. Appearance would lead us to believe we are but one being.  However we experience life on two levels, physical and spiritual. It is possible, as we wade through this corrupt world, the thunderstorms of sin will poor down upon us. Our spiritual sandals can become unstable as we slip in the clay of sin. If allowed, it can built up and become hardened. Hindering our spiritual progression to a level that we forget the truths we once knew and turn away from the Lord. There are many that will help when the sun shines, but when the storms of life come,  and our heavy feet unable to take another step, we are often deserted by those in the world as they pass by. Their cruel laughter, like sharp darts, as we flounder in the mud hole of sin. We rationalize that giving up is easier than moving forward.  However, all is not lost! The world may turn away, but the Lord is willing to free us from our bonds, our burdens, our sins even our hardened clay. He will not just offer a hand, but will stand by your side supporting and lifting until you can stand on firm ground once again. His enduring love your greatest strength. When you are refreshed, restrengthened and prepared He will give you a new pair of sandals… What paths will you choose to walk?.