The Ham-Hock Gallop

“Uh-oh look at that pig run. I think that’s “the ham-hock gallop,” Larry said as we watched at the 4-H Swine Showmanship.

When the judge stood in the middle of the arena, each pig owner took a turn to guide their pig with the curved end of an old-fashioned walking cane, back and forth in front of the judge. The judge moved after a few minutes and the youngster was to guide the pig over to where the judge now stood.

Some of the pigs followed the guidance of their owners, others nosed around the saw dust on the ground, stuck their noses through the fence, walked in a different direction, and would bite another pig if they got close. But the ones who took off running across the arena earned Larry’s special title.

Do you suppose God looks at His children with the same amusement and wonder as we did the pigs? I’ve stuck my nose into areas I didn’t need to, ignored His guidance by playing in the saw dust of my life, and bite others with words when I got irritated at them. The ham hock gallop would probably also describe me as I have run from God directions.

The good news is that God continues to guide and help me through life even when I’ve exhibited the antics of a pig.

“This is what the LORD says-- your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” Isaiah 48:17 (NIV)

Helen L. Hoover