After a few days in God’s air with fresh food, rest, and time with friends, it is easy to believe anything is possible. Marathons can be run, difficult conversations solved, and life works as intended.
Evidence is all around to validate and reinforce belief. Nature appears to be in harmony with the people who choose to share the space. Black berries lie waiting for any and all to enjoy. The morning fog carries the night air into the coming day. The sun will slowly burn the day into a warm afternoon. Anything artificial or intense fades into the natural quietness and space of a land used to being on its own.
As the plans developed for an outing with the cousins through the forest the question of a run was answered before being asked. Little thought was given to the large lunch just consumed, to my level of physical fitness, or the large hill in between the start and finish point. The cool shade and warm sun lent an air of confirmation to the decision.
Oh how reality strikes. Everything combined to take any speed and form away from me as I struggled up the hill. A nice smooth pace gave way to a slow jog that in turn gave space to a firm and brisk stride. As I came through the crest two dogs sat unchained in the middle of the road. Any thought of a quick escape immediately evaporated. Slow, careful, and watchful movement by became the solution. As I cruised into camp I realized the two-edge sword of reality, agony coupled with peace.
What is God’s reality with you and I?
“If God didn’t think twice about taking pruning shears to the natural branches, why would he hesitate over you? He wouldn’t give it a second thought. Make sure you stay alert to these qualities of gentle kindness and ruthless severity that exist side by side in God – ruthless with the deadwood, gentle with the grafted shoot.” (Romans 11.21,22)
God’s reality is painful at times, but always with a purpose of restoration.
