A Physics Lesson and the Wings of Eagles

Well one important lesson was realized yesterday: Even though I know enough physics to pass Dr. Edmiston's class the discussion on velocity and the factor wind plays in it was taken to a new level of learning. Note to self: Do not overestimate how far you can go on a bike when you haven't ridden a bike in well over sixish years or when there is a 10-15 mph breeze in your face for the last 5 miles of the trip. However, a dog running out of a yard to chase you down will really motivate you to go faster even though you have no energy left. Gotta love adrenalin. Also I will be taking a fund for the dogs of Aberdeen so they can be properly kept in their yards. If you would like to donate please let me know :)

Anyway, the fact is I did learn a lot about perseverance yesterday. So often is the passage Isaiah 40:31 quoted, in fact I am going to quote it right now, "But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Which is all good for a cheesy motivational line but it is important to remember what is stated before this verse. The preceding verses of Isaiah 40 discuss comparing God to the different idols people had. Isaiah is trying to get us to realize that our idols are worthless and that our strength must come from God. In life, we so often say we trust in God, but in reality are leaning on things that are not God to get us through. However, nothing can replace God as our source of strength. By no means am I saying that we should not turn to friends and family for support in times of need to help but when we rely on friends and family more than God we have replaced God in our lives and cannot make it through on just them alone. On my bike trip seeing American Falls Reservoir was what was getting me there; however, on the way home the inspiration to see the Reservoir was not enough to carry me through to the end. Only when God is our anchor point for hope and not material things or people or other things that pass away with time, will we truly find hope and strength.

It is nice to be slowly settling in and figuring out what exactly I am going to be doing this summer. I enjoy having some things to work on like dramatic readings for Scripture, special music, Sunday School lessons and so on. However, my internal clock still thinks I am in Ohio. I am still waking up at 6:00 every morning. Not 6:05 or 5:50 or anything like that, but right at 6:00. It is getting a little creepy. Hopefully at some point soon my body will realize I am in Idaho.

May we all put our hope in God and not temporary things as our way of journeying through life. But with that, may we see God in the people around us, through a smiling face, or a warm embrace as well as in the beauty of nature. May you soar because God is lifting you up, taking you to new heights and places that you have never been before or even thought were attainable.

Love you all,
Shalom,
Matt


P.S. For those who are interested in my mailing address. Here it is:
Matt Weaver
c/o First Mennonite Church
381 W. Washington St.
Aberdeen, Id 83210