Step out and walk with others
FOOD FOR THOUGHT by Rev Heather Stewart, Parish of Latheron
Walking is good for us – we are constantly reminded of the benefits of walking for both our mental and physical health.
It is not always easy to be motivated but once off the couch and outdoors on the move we find that even the shortest of walk can help to stimulate the endorphins to lift our spirits.
When we walk with others we have the added benefit of receiving encouragement along the way, the enjoyment of companionship and a sense of safety in numbers.
There is an old Chinese saying that “every journey begins with a single step”. Thinking about walking doesn’t get us on the pathway – we require to put one foot in front of the other. We need to step out.
Throughout the Bible we learn of people who experienced the benefits of “walking with God”. The Psalmist wrote in Psalm 23: “He leads me beside the quiet streams. He gives me new strength. He helps me do what honours him the most. Even when walking through the dark valley of death I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, guarding, guiding all the way” (Living Translation).
We need never feel alone on our walk/journey through life because Jesus promises to be our companion. As we step out on our walks may we seek God’s companionship.
“One more step along the world I go,
one more step along the world I go,
From the old things to the new
Keep me travelling along with you;
And it’s from the old I travel to the new;
Keep me travelling along with you.” (Sydney Carter)
