I’m trying a new thing this winter and it involves bundling up in a million layers and heading outside as the sun is coming up.

YIKES.

Apparently, I am now living proof of what a non-winter person can accomplish when they are desperate for a little fresh air, a little alone time, and a little exercise.

Desperate times call for desperate measures, my friends. 

Can I get an amen to that? 

 

Fortunately for me, I live along the river, and my walks are filled with some pretty breath-taking views: frost covered tree branches, pink tinted skies, crisp white snowbanks, and steel gray bubbling waters. I took a pic this morning but my phone doesn’t do it justice…God’s creation is magnificent. 

 

While I huff and puff along my scenic street, I listen to worship music and talk to God about the good, the bad and the ugly. I sing his praises and thank him too, because he’s worthy. It’s only twenty minutes, but it resets everything in my heart and mind, and it strengthens my resolve to keep running the race of faith. This is not an easy season and I often feel weary, which is why I highly recommend this time to anyone…and I also recommend a good set of long underwear and a facemask if you live in Minnesota.

 

There is a bright yellow sign posted near the most beautiful stretch of the river that reads:

ROAD NARROWS.

 

I always glance up and think, “isn’t that the truth?” because it reminds me of a certain verse from Matthew 7, “But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few will ever find it.” 

 

The road of faith is narrow and difficult, my friends. Now more than ever! In 2021, the journey is not for the faint of heart, especially in a world increasingly at odds with the absolute truth of the Word of God. It’s easy to get discouraged and want to give up and take the wide road instead. 

 

The wide road is easier. More popular. Instantly gratifying. More fun. 

 

The narrow road is difficult. Unpopular. Long suffering and hard. 

 

But it’s worth it. 

 

So I continue to walk down the narrow road because I know the beauty that is found on my morning walks is nothing compared to the beauty that is waiting at the end of the narrow road of faith. I’m thankful for the daily reminder the sign provides to keep pressing on toward the prize to which he has called me. 

 

The road narrows, and I invite you to join me in the pursuit of its path. Together, let’s do this faith journey and stay the course! As always, I love hearing from you. Email me or comment on the blog and I will get on my knees for you. Blessings!