Walking in Prayer.

Would you like to learn about a way to walk that will be a great addition to your prayer life? Most of us can claim the goals of wanting to keep or increase a high level of health, and to continue to grow in our religious journey. By combining walking with prayer you can come back from a walk feeling refreshed and often joyful.

When you are out of the house, all those daily details that are distractions are not there. You won't hear the phone ring; the dryer won't turn off with clothes waiting to be folded and put away; the cat won't meow or do something cute or naughty; and you won't be tempted to stop and write Aunt Nellie that overdue letter. Leaving the house for even a 10-minute walk can get you away from worldly details and into a more reflective or prayerful mind.

Before putting that foot out your door, take a few moments before setting out on your walk to set up a spiritual framework. You can work on thankfulness or work out anger or repeat a short prayer. For at least your first prayer walk, I recommend walking alone, and inwardly reciting a Bible verse, short prayer, or verse from a Christian song. One of my favorite songs for my prayer walks is "Just a Closer Walk With Thee." Another favorite tool is to use a daily meditation guide with a verse from Scripture and a meditation for each day.

Once you have selected a Bible verse or theme for your walk in prayer, set out with a firm stride. Notice things. If the sky is blue and has dramatic clouds, look at this while walking and be conscious of this splendor. This is God's handiwork. If you pass a tree or flowering shrub, take note of this. All things bright and beautiful are made by God. As you walk, keep this in mind.

Often we walk past wonders and take no note of them. During your walk be alert. Your thought at these times can be a simple "Thank You, God, for this beauty. Thank You, God." You can extend this to "Thank You, God, for letting me be able to enjoy this wonderful moment, this glorious view." On one recent walk I paused to spend a few minutes watching brown pelicans resting on a rock outcrop in the ocean. Then I noticed the seagulls resting with them, and at my feet, one black pigeon. Sitting at home, I wouldn't have seen these wonders.

For those of you who live in big cities, yes, you can walk in prayer. You can see all the people around you as unique creations of God. Look for the alley cat or the kind woman who waves at you. You can offer blessing prayers such as "Bless that woman." Look up at the heavens and feel His love flowing to you.

Terra Hangen writes from Santa Cruz, California.