As spring has turned out to be early summer around here…I have had a wonderful time getting out on my bicycle. It has been very enjoyable as well as a great boost to my health kick. In a little less than 3 weeks, I have logged 220 miles on everything from paved trails( limited to walkers, runners and bikers) to flat country roads, and from hilly inland roads to some incredible coastal drives (along a couple of Lake Michigan bays). I have cycled alone and with a good friend…and from building up my speed/endurance, to the pure enjoyment of a leisure tour and even for some quality fellowship. My cycling is becoming an integrated part of my journey in life.
Of course I am able to see the physical benefits of my cycling—my cardio has improved greatly which is a great partner to the strength and core training I have been working on. Getting out in the sun allows me to enjoy the vitamin D production which makes my disposition “sunny” as well. This makes for a wonderful cycle of my enjoyment assisting the growth of my health…which in turn is enhancing my enjoyment… and the cycle goes on!
As I reflect back over the last few weeks, I realized how my physical cycling is also representative of spiritual cycling. As a believer, I recognize the road of life I travel, while narrow (Matt 7:14), traverses a wide variety of life ranging from divinely intimate moments, to those incredibly hilly or “deserty” (yes...I made that word up) times which requires greater endurance and focus, and even through some of the most Godly inspired and beautiful experiences I could ever imagine. And I further recognize that my journey goes through times of traveling alone with God as he deepens my relationship with him, as well as journeying with others as he broadens my relationship with him.
I see that not only is it physically healthy to cycle….but spiritual cycling is healthy as well. My spiritual health is built through growing my worship, discipleship and outreach which enhances the true joy of my journey with Christ…in turn grows my worship, discipleship and outreach…which in turn enhances the joy…and the spiritual cycle rolls on.
So as I cycle…both physically and spiritually…I praise my Heavenly Father for the enjoyment and the growth…which is healthy for my journey in this life…and for eternity! Amen
