I prefer running as my “workout of choice.” In fact, for most runners there is a sense of belonging to a “universal community.” I’ve challenged my endurance in running a marathon as well as completing an Ironman 70.3 (that’s a ½ Iron man length triathlon – covering 70.3 miles of swimming, biking, and running). However, those who know me well know that I don’t intentionally rush from point A to point B. I am typically the last one out the door, in the car, or in my seat. When I walk with folks, I tend to “bring up the rear.” I prefer not to rush around. My anthem could be the words sung by Simon and Garfunkel, “Slow down, you move too fast. You’ve got make the moment last…”

Paul Simon wrote the song ,The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy), 49 years ago. I do not know a deep or hidden meaning of the song, but I know it’s a catchy tune with a message that resonates with me. Slow down. It is instructive to recognize that the scriptures paint a picture of one’s relationship with Jesus as a walk. The scriptures lead us this way; Ephesians 5:1-2 says, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” In our culture, walking is not highly valued by most men. In fact, the faster you get to your destination, the better! We push for speed with a concern for efficiency – how much can we produce in a given time. The more we can produce at a high rate, the more highly we are regarded. I challenge you to read the Bible this month with an eye for intentionality. I propose that the verb walk seems to be aligned with purpose and intentionality. How do we grow wise? Walk with the wise. (Proverbs 30:12) How do we determine the path we should walk? Seek the Lord and his will for your life. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that He has laid out good works for us to walk (in). Have you had a few conversations this week with colleagues that are dissatisfied with their careers? Maybe you are dissatisfied with your career. Have you prayed about it?download

Jesus called us to abide in him (John 15); we are assured that if we claim to abide in him, we will walk in the way Jesus walked. (I John 2:6) Do you struggle with how to interact with those outside the faith? Are you aware of how folks view you at work? Do your interactions at work reflect well on the Lord? The Word directs us to walk in the light (I John 1:7), walk properly before outsiders (I Thessalonians 4:12), and walk in wisdom toward those outside the faith. (Colossians 4:5) The above list is not exhaustive; turn the pages of scripture and be inspired to walk intentionally. To be fair, the scriptures also refer to our faith as an endurance race; however, I will endeavor to do a little more walking this Spring! I invite you to do the same