I went for a trail run yesterday. I debated about wearing my vibram five fingers but instead opted for my trusty Brooks trail shoes. Since we have had a lot of rain this seemed to be the most appropriate choice. I headed out and quickly noted how messy things were going to be. There were puddles of water and mud everywhere. I navigated to low area where there was a small stream that I needed to cross. Looking at the approach I noticed ample amounts of red clay (my Least
favorite substrate). I crossed over the low area and navigated safely through the red clay and started up an incline. This is when IT happened! It was at this point when gravity had to remind me who was in control. For whatever reason I cut to hard with my right foot on the approach of the incline and that’s when I bit it. In a spit second I found myself laying sidewise hugging tera firma. As a result of my misfortune, both of my legs and hands were covered with thick mud.
After I picked myself up I started to laugh. It was at this point when I was reminded that no matter how much we try to ‘calculate’ or ‘anticipate’ scenarios sometimes it’s just best jut run with it. I had a few miles to run with thick red clay covering my legs. I could see people staring at me as I passed them, but I was indifferent…in fact I considered it an honor to be able to walk out of the woods with such a great memory.
Our lives can sometimes mimic my situation. Seriously, we try to do things that are pleasing to God yet keep us firmly positioned in our comfort zone. What if we went for it more often? What if we stepped out in faith when God prompted us to? Sure we might get muddy or a little banged up, but when we walk through that situation with ‘mud’ on us, it will always be a reminder of our obedience to God. I guess I would rather live a life that was messy but in full obedience to God as opposed to a life with guard rails that I have constructed to keep me safe. I want my 2014 and beyond to be muddy…I want to experience obedience to God even if it means getting messy.