“So don’t sit around on your hands! No more dragging your feet! Clear the path for long-distance runners so no one will trip and fall, so no one will step in a hole and sprain an ankle. Help each other out. And run for it!” (Hebrews 12:12-13 MSG)
Last winter, our running group came up with a way to help each other from slipping and falling. The runners out in front would put their arms up in the air whenever they slipped or noticed an icy patch. This helped the rest of us to know when to slow down and be careful. Runners will do this on rugged trails in the summer months too. They will yell out or wave their arms if they trip on a root or come upon a snake on the path. There is no reluctance or embarrassment about sharing this information.
What if we were as willing to share our daily slip-ups with others? For example, I have made a lot of mistakes in my life. I have also had a few impressive moments. I am not as eager to talk about my dumb decisions and their consequences as I am about my achievements. This prideful habit is of no use to anyone.
Calling attention to the hazards, the points where we slip and fall, could help the next person coming up behind us. It may prevent others from making similar missteps. If we are willing to be transparent, our transgressions can be converted into something serviceable. Let us help each other out. As we run forward along God’s path, let us point out the hazards we encounter without embarrassment.
No comments:
Post a Comment