By a Long Stretch

A dozen years ago, I was dangerous when I first got up in the morning. I was a hazard to myself and others, and even the furniture.

When the alarm went off, I'd slip out of bed and stand, no problem. My first steps, though, were stiff and awkward. I wouldn't exactly walk; I'd totter. It took me several minutes to get back to a smooth stride.

I mentioned this to Mildred Foster, an older lady in the church, and added, "It's no fun growing old." She surprised when she told me that none of that was a problem to her!

"Preacher, when you start each day," she said, " stretch first. Reach down and touch your toes before you take your first step. You'll be surprised at the difference it'll make."

The next day, I did try it, and I've been doing it ever since. What a difference it makes! I start by bending my knees and putting my palms on the floor, then standing back up. Next I bend at the waist and, keeping my legs straight, I reach for my toes. It all only takes two or three seconds, but my former stiff-legged starts are a thing of the past.

Think you're going to do great things for God one day? Better stretch first. Otherwise you might take off with a staggering gait, and make a mess of things. Be stretching your faith right now.

"Therefore prepare your minds for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed." I Peter 1:13