Rev. Sarina Odden Meyer
Prayer Walking
Greetings!
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also set aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” - Hebrews 12:1
Many of us have put on weight during the pandemic, both mentally and physically (have you heard of the covid nineteen?). As we carry a weight on our minds and also wonder if our pants will ever fit again, we wonder how we will shed this excess weight!
The Bible is a treasure trove of stories and prayers from people in Ancient times who have lived through life-changing trials. The constant theme that got them through it was a close relationship with God. They kept turning to God, praying, and relying on God for strength. That is how they were able to set aside the excess weight and lean on God to get through it.
During this pandemic, prayer-walking can be a lifeline giving us perseverance to run this race. The exercise is good for our bodies, and it frees our minds from our net of worry in order to connect with God. As we walk, many issues may come to mind. The rhythm of walking becomes a rhythm of prayer in which each thought is lifted to God. In this way, God takes the weight from our minds, and slowly, the weight is shed from our waistlines, too! Through prayer walks, our focus shifts from the weight to the pioneer and perfecter of our faith - Jesus - and we become receptive to what God is saying to us. When you feel a weight on your mind (or your waistline!), take a prayer walk and let Jesus carry the burden.
Grace and peace to you in Christ,
Rev. Sarina