The Overwhelming Horizon

This is the final part in the Still Standing series.

When you are in the thick of grief, the idea of “living for Christ” or “returning to service” feels like a mountain you are climbing with a weighted vest on. We look at the horizon – the months and years ahead – and it feels impossible to navigate.

We think movement must be monumental. We think it means leading a ministry again or traveling the world. But when your heart is heavy, the horizon is a liar. It makes the journey look too far.

The Theology of the Small

The Christian life is rarely a sprint; it is a walk, a long one. And some days, that walk is just a few feet.

I have learned that the most profound movements in my grief have not been giant leaps, but tiny, trembling baby steps.

A baby step is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of immense courage. It is the act of a man who is tired, hurting, and lonely, yet chooses to move anyway.

What a Baby Step Looks Like

For me, staying home for two years was a necessary season. But lately, the “baby steps” have looked like this:

• Choosing to hit “publish” on a blog post even when I feel vulnerable.
• Taking Ben for a walk five minutes more than the last one.
• Opening the Bible not to prepare a sermon, but just to breathe in a single verse.
• Participate in a group chat instead of staying silent.

These are not “game-changing” events in the eyes of the world. But in the economy of God, they are victories.

One Step at a Time

If you are struggling to see how you will ever “get back to normal,” stop looking at the horizon. Look at your feet.

What is the one thing you can do today? Not tomorrow, not next month – just today. How about just standing on the porch for five minutes. Or, making a real meal instead of ordering food delivery.

Movement is the antidote to stagnation. You do not have to run. You do not even have to walk fast. You just do not stay completely still forever.

I am still standing. And today, I am taking one small step. I hope you will join me.

Think about this. What is your “baby step” for this afternoon? It does not have to be spiritual or productive. It just has to be a movement.