I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." Galatians 2:20

I was chairman of the prayer committee for the big, countywide meeting that was coming to Durant. We had planned an all-night prayer vigil for Saturday, and the schedule was almost filled. I had chosen the midnight hour, and there was only one slot left... 5:00 a.m. I took that one, too. I didn't want the chain to be broken.

We were meeting at the Lutheran Church just one-half block from our house on Main Street, so Bill felt safe in letting me walk the distance alone. (How times have changed!) Even though I made a gallant effort, I dozed through most of the 12:00 watch, but I was "bright-eyed and bushy-tailed" when 5:00 rolled around... early morning is one of my favorite times of the day.

Oh, I know, I was supposed to be praying for the evangelist and all the people, but I was having a rough time (per usual), so I included Anabel in my conversation. As I prayed, I said something like this: "Lord, I don't understand Galatians 2:20 and all that it means for me, but I want to claim this truth. Please help me." And since I was all alone in that little chapel, I stretched out on the floor in a "crucified" position and told God, "I accept this from You, today, for my life."

I made a choice... with my mind, with my will. I can't say that I got up the next morning and my life was miraculously changed. I can say that I became very aware of His presence, speaking to me, guiding me, cautioning me. I began walking and stumbling and falling. But, I chose to get up, brush myself off and try again." I want this, Lord."

Isn't this the way we learned to ride a bike? or roller skate? or push a scooter? We wanted to learn so badly that we put up with all of the bloody knees, the chaffed elbows, and even the broken tooth! And then came the day when we rode around the block! And then we rode around our neighborhood. And then we rode over to our friend's house. We were so proud!

Well, we learn how to walk spiritually the very same way. But we have made a choice so we don't give up, and one of these days, although it won't make the evening news, we'll walk all around the block without falling down a single time!