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These Boots Are Made For Walkin'





Stand firm then,...with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. (Ephesians 6:14a& 15)

 

      Several years ago while taking a walk in the snow, I realized how much my new hiking boots freed me. I could walk in snow...on ice...in the cold without as much difficulty as I would have in walking shoes.  Obviously, hiking boots also free one to walk in the summer, too. Some people think that freedom is flip flops, but I don't want to wear flip flops on a real walk. I'm too likely to step on or in something or to twist an ankle. Flip flops are footwear for the casual, not the unpredictable or strenuous.
       When the New Testament was written, may people went barefoot. Those who were wealthier might wear sandals. Soldiers wore something sturdier. Consider the footwear of soldiers today - combat boots aren't pretty. They don't show off your pedicure and might not let your toes breathe and wiggle, but for standing your ground, for standing against an enemy, give me combat boots or hiking boots every time.  They protect the foot from outside dangers. They also help you stand by supporting the foot and ankle.
        Again, what is it that carries us along those rocky, unpredictable and often strenuous paths of life? It is the gospel, the good news, of peace. If you look out the door and see a friend walking up the sidewalk, you open the door and let him in. If you see an enemy, you not only lock it, but add other security devices and then you hide. The friend brings peace.
      We are sent out as representatives of God with a message of peace. It is that message that carries us forward and makes our footing sure. It is not a message of surrender or accommodation. It is not a message asking for terms or opening negotiations. Surrender is required of those to whom we go but the surrender brings peace.

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Ground Hog's Day

Birthday of James Joyce

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