Tales from the Holy Hike Trail - September 9
Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 119:49-72; PM Psalm 49, [53]; Job 29:1,30:1-2,16-31; Acts 14:19-28; John 11:1-16
Over Labor Day weekend, a group of about 40 people from Saint Stephen’s assembled at Camp McDowell to embark on a Saturday morning Holy Hike. Rocks, brambles, broadleaf magnolias, and angry yellow jackets escorted us on our adventure. Equipped with face coverings, water bottles, and walking sticks, we set out as a jubilant crew, ranging in age from young to young-at-heart. We crossed the swinging bridge and began the trek up to the large white cross overlooking the not-so-clear Clear Creek.
We stopped first at a rocky site to read the gospel appointed for the day. We heard the Good News that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and that the flock knows their shepherd’s voice. We continued our hike up to the top of the bluff and gathered at the base of the tall stone cross, looking out over the creek. At that pinnacle, hikers offered their prayers for the Church, concerns of the world, and the God-given gifts that surround us. Filled with prayer, the group meandered down toward the metal ladder – the quick way to get back across the creek, where lunch was soon to be served.
Our plans, however, were thwarted by forces of nature. Footsteps and general exuberance disturbed a community of yellow jackets in subterranean residence at the top of the 12’ ladder bolted into the rockface. A handful of kids and two adults made it down the rungs of the ladder before the attack began. Howling cries rang out as my nine year old was stung on the leg. Moments later, my four year old shrieked and held his hand tightly to his body. Four more, two adults and two kids, were stung in the chaos. Tears of pain and fears for safety clouded our next steps.
Would we push ahead upon the shorter route, risking more injuries? Turn back and retrace our hike over the bluff? Wait for the yellow jackets to simmer down, and try again? Were those with us allergic to wasp stings and at greater risk?
The group moved back, gathered people and thoughts, assessed the risks – and found another way. An older path guided us through brambles, away from pugnacious bugs, and ultimately to our destination.
As I sit with our readings for today’s Daily Office, I am struck by reactions we share when pain ails us. We share in Job’s lament of the pain that racks his bones and the gnawing agony that does not stop (30:17). His inward parts are in turmoil (30:27), and in comparison and self-pity he asks, “Didn’t I show compassion to those who were struggling? Why am I suffering now?” (30:25).
As in John when Lazarus is ill, we share with Mary and Martha in the discomfort of watching our loved one slip away. We wait and pray that God will help us. The waiting drags on. While we are assured of God’s love, will the Lord offer the help we’ve prayed to see?
As in Acts when Paul has been stoned and thought dead, we circle around those who are injured or suffering. We surround them with prayer, presence, and encouragement. And sometimes, they bounce right back and continue proclaiming the greatness of God’s glory through words and deeds.
Whether on a Holy Hike or the path through human existence, sometimes we slip and fall, and though it really hurts, we can choose to keep going. Sometimes people we love are stung by yellow jackets, and all we can offer are words of comfort and a hug – because we cannot take away the pain. And sometimes, the trail is obscured, and we can rely on fellow travelers on the journey to walk alongside us, making the way more apparent.
May the Good Shepherd guide your steps today, wherever you wander.
-- Katherine+
Questions for Reflection
Think of a time you were lost, either physically or metaphorically. How did you react? Who did you call upon to help you? When have you retold that story to others?
Daily Challenge
Ponder what words of encouragement can help you persevere when facing something challenging. It can be a piece of scripture, song lyrics, or the Holy Spirit inspiring your own words. Write those words down, marked with today’s date. Set it aside and come back to that bit of encouragement when you are ailing and tired.