IS 48: 17-19
PS 1:1-2, 3, 4 AND 6
MT 11:16-19
“I, the LORD, your God, teach you what is for your good and
lead you on the way you should go.” (IS 48:17)
Oh, if it were that easy! The readings today remind me that
God is right there – tangible and calling me to a worthwhile and full life.
Again, if it were just that easy…
I’m a physical therapist. I know that exercise is good for
all aspects of my health – weight control, blood sugar, muscle strength, joint
mobility. And yet, I struggle to start and maintain a routine. I know once I
start, my mind is clearer and I feel an energy in my body the rest of the day.
But the start is the hardest part.
I often find myself in a similar position in my relationship
with Christ. I know that reading and reflecting on the Word of God will nourish
my heart and soul. And yet, I give that time away to get to work earlier, clean
my house, or attend to other life obligations. I know once I start, my heart
will sing with a joy as “Those who follow you, Lord, will have the light of
life.” (John 8:12)
Many days I do not feel
like I have the “light of life”. I am discouraged and overwhelmed. Each thought
seems to be filled with anger toward others. “Why doesn’t he just____” or “If
she doesn’t get back to me, I’m going to___”, fill in the blanks. It is often
in those moments that I start to feel a very small light inside warming me,
thawing the frost on my emotions. I delete
the e-mail I was writing or erase the text I was ready to send just a moment
earlier. In that moment, Christ is calling me to follow, again. Follow His
light of life. He is there every day, calling and holding the lights of our
lives. I hope to hold onto His light through this Advent and throughout the
year knowing that when I move back into the darkness, I always have an open
invitation to return to the light of Christ.
Carol Beckel is an Assistant Professor in the Department of
Physical Therapy & Athletic Training. She serves as the Director of
Clinical Education for the Program in Physical Therapy in addition to her
teaching and research in this area as well.
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