| Outdoor Truths: Aiming Outdoorsmen Towards Christ July 24, 2014 |
gary@outdoortruths.org ~ www.outdoortruths.org
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I spent the better part of a day riding a four-wheeler, scouting, and helping friends put up a tree stand. The weather was beautiful with temperatures in the mid 70’s and a very low percentage of humidity. It was the best day that I’ve spent outside in months. In just a couple of months every state will open their bow season and with the new addition of crossbow hunters, more people are able to get into the woods this time of year. There have been mixed opinions on the introduction of the crossbow but I’m personally glad for the addition. More people hunting is a good thing. In the case of my friends, they are a little older than me and they have never hunted with a bow. The crossbow gives them their chance and I’m as excited as they are about the possibilities. In order to prepare, we have erected some nice, comfortable ladder stands in some strategic deer travel routes. My hopes are that I’ll get the call to help them drag out their prize when opening day comes.
I’ve had more fun getting them ready than I have preparing myself. Even though they are both experienced gun hunters, they’ve never felt the rush that comes from having to wait for a deer to get within 30 or 40 yards. The stories that will come from these adventures will just add to a lifetime of other ones they have shared with folks just like me. For some reason I almost feel like a kid who has been invited to tag along with the “men.” It’s as if I’m not allowed to hunt until they say I’m ready. It’s like I’m trying to prove myself worthy to be a part of this fraternity of hunters. I’m not doing it, however, by showing my skill but by showing my willingness to serve.
Jesus gives me hope in this approach. He said, “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave.” This plan is not popular with our world but it is the plan that’s endorsed by God. And if it’s good enough to win the favor of the Heavenly Father, it just might work on my earthly friends as well.
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