“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1)
I’m 5’2” (if you are rounding), my BMI index isn’t impressive, I’m slow as molasses and I’m just not what you imagine when you think of a runner. I obviously wasn’t a supermodel to start so 35 years and 2 kids certainly haven’t helped matters. I’ve learned over the years that there is little reward from running a race with speed while looking beautiful. But, running with endurance in the presence of God? The rewards are countless… and beautiful indeed! It’s all about focus. It’s more victorious to stand at the start of an x mile journey without fear of what lies ahead – knowing that if you have the right focus, you will make it to the end to claim the prize no matter your speed! I want to be a woman who can laugh at the days (or miles) to come (Proverbs 31:25b).
When I started running, I was a smoker who could not complete a ½ mile loop around a nearby lake without walking. My last race before I had children was a half-marathon (13.1 miles). And today, I have been smoke-free for 11 years! Our determination alone can accomplish incredible things. So what would happen if I completely surrendered to God and completely relied on His power, not my own? O yes, I think there would be laughter indeed. Every day a celebration of what lies ahead! Perfect peace, perfect love, perfect relationship with God in a house built for me where my waistline and heart condition are forgotten nuisances in the presence of the One who was and is and is to come!
Just get your toes on the starting line…. He’ll do the rest!
I'm amazed at how fast the miles build when first starting to run. I started with 2 miles and then built from there. I'm at 8 miles; however I have an ankle injury that is limiting me! I'm determined to get my ankle fixed and complete a half marathon as soon as possible! MRI is on Friday and then the results to follow. I have faith in He who guides me... Lisa-Love you too! You are an ammmaazzzinng SISTER!
ReplyDeleteThanks Molly!!! You are such a blessing! I'll be praying about your ankle. That's a real bummer. You should come down and join us for the Bolder Boulder assuming your ankle heals timely - a 10k is good training for a half! ;)
ReplyDelete