My Shadow

Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee; going to the mountain where Jesus had said they would find him. There they met him and worshiped him - but some of them weren't sure it really was Jesus!

He told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and earth. Therefore go and make disciples in all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and then teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you; and be sure of this - that I am with you always, even to the end of the world." Matthew 28:16-20 (TLB)

Ron Lutz lives in Ohio. Running has always been part of his life. Even now that he is a senior citizen, God still blesses him with the ability to run three to four times a week and occasionally participates in a race. On sunny days, he notices his shadow running with him, coaching him on his stride, posture, and pace. However, on cloudy days his shadow is nowhere to be seen. He is left to run on his own.

We can think about God's presence or absence in our lives in a similar way. When life is great, we are happy, the world is wonderful, and we feel that God has blessed us. When health problems, marriage troubles, job loss, or financial hardships arise, we may ask, "Where are you, God? Why aren't you here with me?"

But even when we cannot perceive it, God is with us 365 days a year, caring for us and watching over us, no matter what we are experiencing. And God will be there with us until the end of our life's race.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to remember that you are always with us and that you will see us through each day. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.