 | Mr. Jones is fine Christian Gentleman who Loves Jesus with all his heart. His Love of Fly fishing is second only to his God and his family. |
| Mr. Jones is fine Christian Gentleman who Loves Jesus with all his heart. His Love of Fly fishing is second only to his God and his family. |
Brethren! The time draweth near to take up thy rod and thy staff and begin thy journey in earnest:
I Pray that those of you who are to be ordained into the calling of "Those who stand in the River" have been stepping out, in faith, of course, to the local fishing store in order that you might find yourself more prepared for your walk. Perhaps "Wade" would be a better term at this juncture. As we have all (I'm sure) read in the Scriptures that we are to "put on the armor of the Lord" each day. Great caution should be taken when ever we attempt to interpret God's word and apply it into our daily lives. While I am sure that God's armor could be extended to putting on "Waders", the every day thing is going to be a tough sell at home. The truth is in each of us, and your spouse "knoweth thine true heart" (sorry. I don't make the rules, I just read em). Well, now that the subject has come up, we should deal with it. It is obvious to each of us on the path, that, as we grow, we will need to obtain some decent Waders and wading boots. The benefits of these items is not always clear to those who are not anointed. For one thing, They help you to look like a ballerina in rubber pants and boots. I myself am not exactly sure why this is a good thing, perhaps it is one of God's Humorous Mysteries? One of the other, and more practical reasons, is that we need Waders to get out to where the fish are biting, because EVERYONE knows the the fish are ALWAYS feeding just a little further than you can cast to from shore. It is a fact. Ask any fisherman without a boat. "Beware that Ye not be deceived" into thinking that you need a boat (Yet). I NEVER SAID THAT YOU NEEDED A BOAT! In other words, as a parable, "He that stepeth into the deep and swift water can leave me on the shore!" OR - "Your guide has his own problems without you making like a millstone around his neck!" I am only saying that your might could use a pair of Waders. ( your best bet is a pair of "stockingfoot" waders with separate boots ) One of the best pair of boots that I ever owned were a pair of the cheapest canvas wading boots I could find. And the first pair were tennis shoes that I had glued felt to the bottoms. I, like many of the brethren, needed to suffer much before I could acquire all the necessary gear.
(Isn't "WORK" another word for suffering?)
Remember "that as the Day draweth near, thou shall be sorely tempted." More to the point, a quick tour thru the local fishing store ( or a mail order place, by the way ) will find those who are new to the path lusting after many useful and not so useful items. The best advice is to pray hard and choose well as your local shop might frown on the art of returning specialty items. If any of the brethren wonder why I use the phrase "art of returning items", I would direct them to inquire with one of the ladies groups at your church. I am sure that they will set your mind at ease.
Brothers and Sisters, this has been but a glimpse into another world from the perhaps twisted viewpoint of a Short Bald Guide (now you know). We have covered a lot of water, and I hope, had some fun along the way. I have no idea if this is the last in a series or what.
If you have ever participated in the pastime of fly fishing you might have sometimes thought that it is in a very minor way like being born again. You can read about it all you want, but you will NEVER truly understand what it is really like until you actually do it for yourself. There is more here than you could possibly believe, and if for some reason you don't think that it is for you, then quit. It's not like you are going to give up your freedom to choose your own path because you tried it once. Stand on the shore, get in the river, or drift in a boat ( there's that boat thing again!). I have heard it said often that life is about feeling good. This is exactly the point! Feeling good. If for any reason you find that I have been right in urging you to try this path for yourself, then go for broke and try fly fishing too! ( as a fishing guide I had to learn to sneak up on em ).
I would like to leave you with a couple of thoughts to keep you humble. No matter how good you become as a fly fisherMAN, most women pick it up in about half the time.
Before engaging in spreading any "Parables" about outwitting a particular fish, keep in mind that the fish has a brain about the size of a PEA.
On a personal note, the next time that you go fishing, take a partner with you. Fly fishing is known to be a solitary experience. Try going with God the next time that you go fishing. I can hear what you are thinking, but, try this: take God with you for the sole purpose of just going with Him. Try not asking for good weather, big fish or even a good day of casting. Just ask Him along because you want to spend some time in His presence. I believe you will have a good day. I believe He will too.
Tight lines and may you be blessed no matter who or where are.
sbg
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