Walk with Care

 

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.  (Ephesians 5:15-21 ESV).

 

I can remember times as a child when I would walk along the railroad tracks. It was always an “adventure.” You always found various treasures in the things that had accumulated along the bed of the tracks. I saw the photo I’ve included today and thought that was a perfect example of how easily it is for younger people to walk without giving a thought to falling because of diminished balance. I once was able to do that; however, now I find myself finding something to hold on to as I walk any uneven surface. I guess that’s just a part of growing older. At least that’s what my doctor reminds me of when I ask why it is getting a bit more difficult to walk steadily. I’m afraid I’m approaching that part of my life when I’m not even “as good once as I ever was.”

 

Our reading today reminds us to “look carefully how we walk” (v. 15). As soon as the apostle says that he also says we are to be “wise.” I have often pondered the meaning of being wise. Some of the thoughts revolve around staying focused on truth instead of lies; however, I am more drawn with the habits I’ve developed in life. More and more I am faced with the habitual practice of doing the same things and expecting different results. Perhaps that’s why I have added another proverb to my mental collection: doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results is insanity.

 

My physical abilities are decreasing with age. That is the natural order of life. However, I cannot allow that to be true with my intellectual and emotional practices. I can, and should be doing those things that will increase my abilities in those areas. For example, should I find that I have drifted in a negative or pessimistic attitude about my loss of physical strength and acuity, I must redirect my thoughts to the knowledge that this merely means I’m getting closer to the finish line where I will be allowed to cross into the ultimate victory of eternal life. This allows the power of hope to rule in my heart and mind. Then I have strength. Perhaps there are some habits you should reexamine. Look carefully how you walk!