Don't Forget the Squats!

 Wednesday August 7^th 2024

What should I choose this week for our word? Nothing has really stood out for me except SQUATS.

Now before you think I am going to only talk about physical exercise, give me a minute.

It is true that I have been telling everyone that it is critical to do squats daily – after surgery I discovered how important because I could not bend over for a couple weeks; but I could pick up things after just a few days if I would squat. It’s a basic, foundational exercise; some personal trainers, who specialize in helping us “experienced” adults, even consider squats the single most important exercise we can do.  

So let’s apply this to other foundational things in life. Look at what is basic; what allows you to do other things; what allows you to build your skills.

In our professional lives there are classes and courses to give us additional information. College classes are even numbered to show you how they build on one another (Psych 101, 102, 103; Calculus 101, 201, 301). There are advanced business courses and degrees which allow us to add to our already-accumulated knowledge, and training programs that allow us to elevate our skill levels.

Yet it is most important to begin at the beginning – with the basic foundations like high school Psychology and Algebra I.

In our spiritual lives there are also building blocks: intentional daily time with God – talking with Him and listening to Him (remember that listening part – it’s very important). Intentional daily time reading the scriptures and asking Him “What are You saying to me? What are You asking me to do?” These are the building blocks of our faith. There are also extra ways to add to our faith skills: pastor’s sermons, Bible study groups. There are courses at a seminary and books by learned theologians.

Yet again, it is important to start with this basic step: spend quality intentional time in prayer and scripture. This is the single most important thing you can do to build a strong faith in God.

And don’t forget to do squats!

Be appreciative

 

Wednesday July 31^st 2024

July has been an interesting month, as I have had surgery and therefore forced to be in rest and recovery mode. As we finish this month, I am thinking that my word is APPRECIATION.

Not one to sit about and be waited upon, I greatly appreciate the generous people from our church who made and delivered dinners for us for two weeks. It has been humbling to receive such caring. Often I tell others that allowing others to serve us allows that person to serve. It is quite different to be on the receiving end of one’s own advice.

I greatly appreciate all the extra household “stuff” that my husband has handled over these past weeks. He still has to do some tasks until I am able to lift heavier things and until my stamina fully returns.

There is also a greater appreciation for the daily things we usually do for ourselves: getting a cup of water, preparing a meal, answering the door, even washing up and changing clothes. It has also given me a greater appreciation for those who spend their days helping those for whom these things are always a challenge; caregivers whose days and nights are consumed by doing the little things for someone unable to do for themselves.

Scripture tells us “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV) Note it does not say give thanks for all things – it says in all circumstances. Even while you are being wheeled into surgery, while you are recovering, while you are being served when you would prefer to serve – even during those times give thanks. Appreciate the surgeon and nurses, the people who have come to serve dinner or bring flowers, even the time you can sit back to read and nap.

And while I am at it – I appreciate all of you who have read this far. You are a blessing.