Blessings in the Mud
Wayne Allen of West Portsmouth, OH, USA
By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. -Galatians 5:22-25
Camp Manager Doug Altman and I decided to hike to the top of a hill where the labyrinth was located. Both of us had been on top of the other hill several times, but never to the top of this one. The path was at times unclear, and at certain points it seemed way too steep. We began to question why we were doing this. After a long climb, however, we finally reached the summit. Doug waited for me at the top. I’m a slow hiker!
The view from the top was beyond interesting-a sight that will stick in my memory for a long time. Though we did not recognize it at the time, we had already been blessed by the experience. For a while we searched for an ideal photo spot. We never really found an unblocked view, but were able see the camp from a unique perspective experienced by only a few. After looking around for a while, we walked the ridge line and found we could see nearly all of the grounds at Camp Bountiful.
Eventually we decided it was time to come down. Doug recognized I was having trouble so offered his shoulder for me to lean on. I had a walking stick and used Doug’s shoulder when it was necessary. At points it was a difficult and challenging adventure, but through all the mud and rocks, it was a blessing.
The memories of that climb will last a lifetime. I am so grateful for the experience. When the path was unclear, it would have been easy to turn back and declare I could go no further. We were blessed because we did not turn back.
We found blessings that awaited us at the top. As the song says, “Bountiful beauty all around, blessings to be found.” It is my prayer that you will also find blessings on life’s difficult paths.
Prayer Phrase
Wherever I am, God is here.
Spiritual Practice
Breathe deeply and prayerfully consider the story you have just read. What is the Spirit’s invitation to you in these words? What does it look like to wake up to God’s presence in this moment?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
