The Gospel reading today is about Jesus, following the Resurrection, walking with two disciples on the road to Emmaus. The disciples don’t realise who their walking companion is – until they share a meal together at the end of the journey. What a significant walk that was!
Walking can be most revealing in lots of ways. We take in the landscape at a slow pace. We have time to think. We can have enlightening conversations with a walking companion or a fellow dog walker. If you have need to give or receive advice, or sound off about something, the gentle way to do this might be during a walk.
Even when the world seems to be spinning out of control, walking can restore your sense of inner peace. It gives you a chance to slow down, to relax, to appreciate yourself and your life. It reconnects with the glorious world of nature. Time seems to expand, creating a sense of spaciousness in the present moment. It is the antidote to craving to get where you’re going as fast as you can.
Walk and your senses are enlivened. Colours seem more brilliant. The smells and sounds become more alive. The birds sing to you while the leaves on the trees are dancing in the breeze in harmony with some cosmic orchestra.
On a physical level, walking has enormous benefits. I read that it strengthens the heart. It helps the lungs operate more efficiently. It strengthens the digestive system. Walking boosts the immune system and enhances the nervous system and cognitive function. Walking also helps your circulatory system and helps to maintain bone density.
No matter where you live, there is some small space, a park, a trail or a route you can find to walk. How about a disused railway line?
In the Bible “walking” is an alternative way of saying “living”. So, for example, to walk in the light means to live in the light. And if you walk with the Lord you live with the Lord. “When we walk with the Lord in the light of his word, what a glory he sheds on our way.” Sing that little ditty as you go for your next walk.
Comments