"Ride on victorious, for your God."

This is a picture from a road trip I went on last spring break to the Grand Canyon with my family. Specifically, I think it was taken somewhere close to the Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona. It's so beautiful out there. Imagine galloping a horse across that open field, just riding onwards, as fast and as long as your horse will take you. At least that's always what I think about when I look out upon land like this. I love it out West. Sometimes my heart gets restless here and yearns to go back. Even though I love the city of Madison (almost as much as I love the land of ten thousand lakes!)  it feels like my spirit is more rest out in the western country. To be under that vast expanse of sky with golden fields stretching before you to the horizon. I know I'm somewhat idealistic. I've often told my friends I wish I could be a "prairie girl" and live out West in a field surrounded by wild horses. I was only half kidding. Okay, actually I wasn't kidding at all....although I do know that I probably can't make a living as "prairie girl." Darn. Anyway, as I look out on land like this, I am inspired. I am reminded of the glory of the Lord. I am astounded by the beauty and freedom of His creation. The phrase comes into my head and echoes throughout my being, "Ride on, dear one, ride on victorious, for your God." I want to ride for the glory of God. I want to ride out in His name, and press onwards into that vast expanse.