Be Careful

Last week there were several days in succession when the temperatures went above 95 degrees. I'm not a fan of sultry weather...but I value solid and regular aerobic exercise, so in spite of the heat I donned my running clothes and prepared to strike out as soon as class was dismissed at 2:30 pm. The heat was at its highest, and although there was a strong breeze it wasn't refreshing. In fact, when I stepped out of the dorm it was like entering a blast furnace.

My plan was to find some of the trails that meander through the Gettysburg Battle Field, so I stopped to get information at the historical center, which is on the seminary campus. The receptionist was congenial and helpful, but looked at me doubtfully and asked if I had water with me. I don't have one of those state of the art water packs that hang on your back as you run or ride a bike....and I don't run well with a bottle in my hand. As I left the historical center with the map shoved in my shorts pocket, the receptionist said "Be careful, it's hot out there."

I didn't run for long and didn't cover much distance. In a very short time I was soaked with perspiration and could tell that thirst was going to be extreme. I was reminded what it feels like to be parched ... not just thirsty. When I returned to my room and took those first sips of water, it was as if every cell, every fiber of my body was being refreshed and replenished. It was a dramatically different kind of drinking than when I sip from the water glass that is always available on my night stand or at my writing desk. My body was absorbing water, essential for my body's existence, in the way that can only happen when the surplus has been expressed, depleted.

What a grace filled moment! I was reminded of the words of the psalmist in Psalm 63:

"O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water."

I realize how frequently I run through life...through the activities and responsibility of ministry or family ... I realize how irresponsible and in fact how ungrateful it is when I press on for too long without the essential, lifegiving communion with God through prayer. I realize how frequently I run the risk of becoming parched in spirit. I realize that I am surrounded by the communion of saints speaking to my soul...be careful...it's hot out there!