Throughout my career as a physical therapist, I have always promoted that the best exercise anyone can do is regular walking. Whether you are 18 months or 81 years old, it is one of the most basic things, yet one of the most beneficial things we can do for our physical and mental health. Even for those who cannot walk, it is good, as I’ve gone for several walks with someone in a wheelchair, and it did us both good. Granted, some are only able to tolerate walking for a short while, but research continues to promote the benefits, even for those with debilitating or chronic diseases. One of my favorite memories as a child was going for walks in the country with my mom or my aunt and siblings. When you walk with someone else, it also allows you to talk, to get to know them better, and to share life. Where have you walked that took you where you did not expect to go with someone?
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers. Psalm 1:1
When walking, or even going for a long drive with someone else, you get to know them and care about them a little more. When you walk a mile with someone, you start to empathize a little more, and actually care about them when you begin to understand their situation. We often don’t care as much about those we don’t know well. When we spend time together completing a task, even one as simple as walking somewhere, you begin to connect a little more. So the phrase ‘don’t judge someone until you have walked a mile in their shoes’ may also be understood as spending time with them and getting to know their unique situation. We may not always have made the same decisions as others, but we may start to understand why they did what they did. I’m sure the disciples learned a good deal from Jesus as they walked from town to town.
If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Matthew 5:41
What is your reply when someone asks you, ‘How is your walk with the Lord?’ Our relationship with Christ is often described as a walk for a variety of reasons. Sometimes we are walking well when we hear Him and are in step with the Spirt. Other times we may stray and wander till we hear our Shepherd’s voice and walk back to the flock. As we walk with Him, he is also teaching us as we go. So, as you spend time with those you do not know well, and as you lead others, make sure you are following and walking with Christ, who will not lead you astray. May you be blessed in your journey with Him and each person you walk with along the way!
Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7
Yours in Christ,
Clark
