I am preparing for hip surgery nine days from now. I am exercising muscles I didn’t know I had, and it’s part of my routine several times a day. It will be valuable in my recovery time and effectiveness in using my new artificial hip.
The Bible has something to say about this, as it does about many of life’s challenges. Here’s what Paul write in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27: “Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize, that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So, I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others, I myself might be disqualified.”
I am currently reading a book called “Ballerinas” and learning what an extraordinary amount of self-discipline and determination is required for many years, and that only a few become “stars.” Again, God brings several things into my life at the same time to show me life lessons. One is the book on hip replacement. This scripture and this novel also tell me that to get the most out of life, and to “run the race well” even at eighty-two, I can use the examples and words of others to improve myself. So, this is my focus in the next several weeks of preparation and rehabilitation after my surgery. The rewards for me physically will be strength and confidence. But I never need to worry about the “prize” of eternity. Jesus has done the heavy liftings, so to speak, by following God’s direction which led to my salvation. I am eternally grateful, and use my writing to pass on this message. For God has richly blessed me so that I can bless others with whatever I endeavor to do in this life. Will you join me in the eternal steps, walk, and victory?
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