Body and Soul

1 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with scoffers. 2 But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; day and night they think about his law. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never wither, and in all they do, they prosper. - Psalm1:1-3

I did it. This morning, I finally did it. I got out of be before 6:00, well it was 5:57, and I went out for a two-mile walk/run. Half of it was actually running! Over time, I hope to work up to running five miles each day. But I have a problem - I don't like to run. I used to work with a fellow who had a pretty insightful disposition about running - "You can run for money or you can run for your life, but you don't run for fun." So, you ask, if you don't enjoy running, why are you doing it. The answer is both simple and complicated, but in essence, here it is - I want to run because I know I should. Holistically, it will benefit me. Of course we all know the health benefits, but for me it will help me spiritually as well. I know this from experience. Several years ago, I used to be in the habit of doing this ritual of getting up early for a time exercise and devotions. I was most attuned to my health and with my relationship with God because I had developed some good habits. And can't we all benefit from good habits?

In the text scripture text above, the psalmist expounded on the benefit of daily devotion. The more good we engage in, the less we do things that are harmful. I need that water and nourishment from above because, as we know from experience, the long dry days are plentiful just like the the temptation to be lazy. So for me, the regiment of a daily run will always be tied with meditating on scripture and discerning the direction in which God is leading me. the two fit together quite nicely - body and soul. Likewise, if I ever get out of the habit of running, my daily devotions will be that gentle reminder that I need to tend to my physical health as well. Body and Soul.

Godspeed,
Tim