I wrote on the subject of shoes in a previous TFTD (29-6-26).
A recent visit from the infamous Bill the boxer left me with an unwearable pair of gardening “cloggies”. It was Sunday morning and he was left at home in the sole charge of my husband. On my return from church, I found an insole laying in the middle of the hall floor. Further searching revealed a torn and chewed remnant of said “cloggies”.
This in turn reminded me of our circuit prayer meeting that was led by Rev. Vivienne using the bible reference to the armour of God, but using more contemporary clothing analogies. We ended thinking about the “shoes of obedience.”
In my previous TFTD I mentioned various types of shoes – walking boots to help us on a long and arduous journey, slippers for those times we need to relax, reflect and refresh, and heels when we want to look smart – but beware of our own vanity.
Thinking about my “cloggies”, I wear them when I’m pottering in the garden, or for a quick trip up to the other end of the garden e.g. to the compost heap. For heavier work, my wellingtons come out.
We all have shoes for different tasks. I wouldn’t wear my slippers to dig the garden and I probably wouldn’t wear my walking boots in the house.
In our faith journey, God gives us the tools to walk in obedience, to be active and to rest, to travel a long journey or a short trip. There may be distractions along the way – having your shoes shredded by the mischievous hound clearly demonstrates this. However, God always provides the tools we need – yes, I have a new pair of “cloggies!”
Prayer: Gracious and merciful Father, help us to put on the shoes of obedience fit for the task ahead. Walk alongside us as we tread the path you set out before us. Thank you for giving us the footwear we need for each journey we make. Forgive us the times when we are distracted by those who try to deter us, and thank you that even when we have been distracted you help us to get back on track. Amen