Get in Shape

In Colorado recently to speak for a senior adult conference, I had some free time one afternoon so a friend lent me his GMC truck and I headed for Rocky Mountain National Park. It was a perfect day for hiking. Clear blue skies, bright sunshine, a cool breeze.

I quickly found a place to park and then set out on foot on a promising-looking path called Deer Mountain Trail. Whenever I'm outdoors I marvel at God's handiwork, and this day was no exception. A couple hundred yards along the trail, I could already see snow-capped mountains off in the distance. Pine trees stretched majestically into the sky, and a bright-colored blue jay soared over the valley below.

There was only one problem. It had been months since I had gone hiking, and before I had gone even half a mile up the trail, I had to stop and rest. Out of breath in the thin mountain air, I sat down on a rock while chipmunks chattered by an old tree stump nearby. My lungs ached, my legs were starting to burn, I was already thirsty for a drink of water—and I had barely begun my walk! Determined to go on, I pushed myself to my feet and started again, past the wooden marker that said, "Deer Mountain Crest, 3 Miles." Ten minutes later I was sitting on a rock again, panting for breath and thinking, Maybe this is where the deer and the antelope play, but I feel like taking a nap!

I wish I could tell you how I pressed on bravely to the top of the mountain. I wish I could describe what it was like when I finally pushed my aching body over the final crest and stood triumphantly on the summit, proudly surveying the view from the mountain peak. Truth is, I finally gave up. Too exhausted to climb anymore, I headed back down the trail to the comfort of my friend's GMC. I still enjoyed the view, but I spent the rest of the afternoon surveying the scenery as a casual spectator instead of a hiker participating in the climb.

How often do we do the same thing in our spiritual lives? Who knows what new peaks we could reach, what new heights we could attain, if we were in better shape spiritually? How many more missionaries could be sent, and souls saved, and families restored, and cities renewed, and lives transformed if we were strong and vigorous in spirit? What new paths could we walk if not for our flabby faith, our puny prayers, our stingy stewardship, our wimpy worship?

Scripture rebukes the inactivity and doubt that rob us of spiritual energy. "Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit" (2 Corinthians 7:1). "Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love" (2 Peter 1:5–7).

Summertime isn't a season for spiritual laziness. Along with sightseeing, family fun, and a change of pace from the daily grind, why not use your vacation for spiritual renewal? Spend an afternoon outdoors and thank God for his handiwork. Read a good book that fuels your passion for God. Go on a mission trip, spend time at a Christian camp, or simply relax with your family at home and let the Lord refill you with peace and purpose.

As for me, one of my summertime goals is to get back into physical condition. The next time I visit Deer Mountain Trail, I'm going to the top.