I went biking with my wife today. It was a beautiful spring day and I knew she would love it if I asked her to go. The thing is. She doesn’t go for a leisurely stroll through the woods. This girl likes to put in at least 10 miles of rolling hills at a high pace.
For a couple years now I would get out of biking with her because she would destroy me on the course. I’d be huffing and puffing up the hills and she’d be waiting at the top riding in circles patiently waiting for me. (Did I tell you she’s got really bad knees too?) It was tough to handle and I learned to hate it.
I’ve been working out lately and thought I was up for the challenge. I’ve lost a bunch of weight and my cardio-vascular system seems to be liking me right now.
Before we set out I asked her to make sure you wait for me at the top of the hills as usual. She smiled and said of course.
Riding for the first hill I was feeling okay but thought I’d run out gas half way up. She didn’t have to wait for me this time.
I thought well, it’s the next hill that’s the tough one. I’m sure that’s when the real me shows up. Surprise! I kept up with her just fine and started to realize this is kind of nice!
It was a great afternoon ride and I found myself actually enjoying it. How did this happen?
I realized I don’t hate what’s not dreadful. Duh, you’re thinking. My point is how often does this apply in our lives. How often in your life do you come across something you hate to do even though you know you need to do it. You talk yourself into hating it because it’s difficult.
Maybe it’s schoolwork. “I hate Math because I can’t do it.” I hate History because I can’t remember anything!”
Maybe it’s something with your job. Perhaps a responsibility you’ve inherited but hate to do it and put it off as long as possible or a person you hate to deal with so you’ve just stopped trying.
My life lesson is that it took time and prayer to get where I’m at right now. I’m in a good place! Even with this Covid 19 scare right now I find myself very satisfied with how it’s going.
First of all I’ve worked hard to get into better shape. What I found dreadful in the past is no longer something I dread. I actually liked it? I didn’t do any crazy P90X workout. I just tried to do something everyday. (Disclaimer – it was probably more like 3-5 times a week.)
What about those of struggling with school? What can you do to make it a bit easier so you don’t hate it? Maybe it’s just keeping a detailed planner. perhaps you just need to ask for help. You can do it! Just a little at a time and what you hate doesn’t have to be dreadful.
What about that person at work that makes life seem unbearable? Share Christ’s love with them by acting in a loving way. Smile at them, with them. Pray for them. Pray that God gives you the strength to keep at it.
Life can be and is hard. I thank my Lord everyday that he sent His Son to die for me. I thank God that when He looks at me He only sees the robes of Christ. He sees me as He would see his own child. Wow.
We are about to enter a Holy week like we’ve never experienced. I will miss joining with my fellow believers going to the cross of our Savior. Mourning his death and then celebrating His resurrection Easter Morning. (I just got goosebumps writing that.) It will be different but definitely not dreadful. Don’t let your present circumstances steal the joy of the truth of Easter. We are saved by the grace of our ever loving God. Start thinking about what you can do to make it memorable and perhaps enjoyable.
Prayers and blessings to you all.
Yowsers! That was quite a bike ride!