By Rachel Shultz November 15, 2010
Impulsion is a horse word that inspires me. As I am not yet a classically trained rider, forgive me for some of the creative liberties I take in exploring its meaning.
Impulsion is a horse word that inspires me. As I am not yet a classically trained rider, forgive me for some of the creative liberties I take in exploring its meaning.
Wikipedia introduces & describes impulsion in the company of horses, as “the pushing power (thrust) of a horse, which comes from his desire to move powerfully forward with energy.” Oh that we all have that desire! Yet many times we confuse this kind of forward motion with speed. A horse that is excitedly rushing forward is not necessarily moving forward purposefully. It can be braced, fearful, or nervous propulsion. On the other hand, it could be an aggressive self assured charge, knocking into anything in its path. In either of these scenarios the outcome is less than ideal.
When we are privileged to view a horse & rider team with beautiful impulsion it is a symphony of the equine form in its entire created splendor. The horse has developed an open & trusting bond with its rider as it flexes & bends at ease in the pinnacle of communication. The rider is calm & assured, opening the door for each change of performance & the horse follows through in calm collected form with balance & grace. When we see a stallion in the wild circling his band with stunning impulsion it arises from his confidence & protectiveness, with the wisdom of his purpose & charge.
In our ministries & in our relationship with God it is sometimes easy to lose sight of how to purposefully move forward. We are faced with a constant barrage of predators, of being separated from the herd, of being unable to weather the storm, find forage or living water. In the arena we may feel like we can surmount all the obstacles in record time alone, yet fail to pace our strides & leave tumbling faults in our wake. When we’re faced with new obstacles our gut may tell us that flight is paramount, yet a heart full of trust & blessed assurance will quell the fear. In our strength do we sprint, or do we train for endurance? Do we pause along the trail to keep our heart rate in check; ride with others for fellowship & protection? Can we listen well enough to spin in a whirlwind & halt without capsizing; to give it our all till it’s time to slide in safely & maneuver back where needed? Can we change leads in flight & deftly side pass to avert disaster. Can we find our place in the herd & serve with our gifts & strengths as we’re called?
Each of us has a personal, individually unique call to this ministry under girded by the truth that Christ is the author, creator & victor of hope. As we mount up each day with our focus on Him & wait patiently for His cue we can be assured that the challenges waiting will be perfectly balanced in the relationship we have cultivated.
"Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground."
~ Psalm 143:10
