Running seems to be a recurring theme in my life...
Middle school cross country
and track
High school cross country
and track
College cross country
and track (less running, more flying)
5K's, Mini marathon, half marathon, half ironman, marathon...
You get the picture.
So what's the big deal with running. As you can see, the verse across the top references it, our exercise class at church was built on it "In Such a Way", which referenced the verse "run in such a way as to get the prize that will last".
Endurance is key. Mental stamina and control. Internal motivation which is derived from some factor that is different for everyone. I think my motivation is a combination of knowing what the end goal is, seeing the benefits to getting there in this manner, and a sense of this is what I should be doing. Granted running itself at this point in life is more a function of health maintenance whereas in college it was way more than that. As Coach Foss used to point out, in concert with Chariots of Fire, using my God given gifts to the max is pleasing to Him. I am worshiping God when I am using my talents and abilities and representing Him in the process through my sportsmanship, attitude, dedication, etc, etc.
So now, what is the point, why the running theme, why does Paul use it in his writings? It's an analogy for the Christian life. Living on earth yet yearning for the Kingdom to come takes a lot of endurance. It's not easy, the promise was not for it to be easy, but the reward will be great. Way better than nice legs that look good in shorts. Still, gotta get through this race, gotta push forward and persevere to the end. The obstacles seem like mountains at times. It is then when I am reminded that God is the one who can move mountains; I do not have to do it on my own. The voices of doubt creep in and that is when I reach out to my friend and ask for some help. Encouragement is necessary to get a good time. Teammates are critical to success.
"encourage one another daily, as long as it is called today" - Hebrews 3:13
"do not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching" - Hebrews 10:25
I know I got my dose today from some friends, listening to their lives, sharing in their ups and downs - that's encouraging to me. Sharing my struggles and asking for them to listen; I know I am not in it alone.
Who was I able to encourage today?
Who were you?
Thursday, December 8, 2016
Sunday, February 21, 2016
May I dance?
Love (III)
Guilty of dust and sin.
But quick-eyed Love, observing me grow slack
From my first entrance in,
Drew nearer to me, sweetly questioning,
A guest, I answered, worthy to be here:
Love said, You shall be he.
I the unkind, ungrateful? Ah my dear,
I cannot look on thee.
Love took my hand, and smiling did reply,
Who made the eyes but I?
Truth Lord, but I have marred them: let my shame
Go where it doth deserve.
And know you not, says Love, who bore the blame?
My dear, then I will serve.
It's playing in my mind. He takes one step forward, I take one step back. He spins me out, but stops it halfway and I get cued to turn back in. If he's a good lead he doesn't pull, no jerk, just a simple tug of the hand with two fingers.
How often I resist, God offers me love and I shut him down. He takes that step, offers a hand and I out of pride, selfish ambition, or just plain ignorance ignore the offer. If only I responded to God as eagerly as I do any man brave enough to lead on the dance floor. Why wouldn't I with an offer like this 'Who made the eyes but I....you must sit down and taste my meat: so I did sit and eat." So parallel to the image of a feast prepared before me in the presence of my enemies; yet, so opposite to how Jesus came as one who serves, not as the one reclining at the table. Lord, help me comprehend 1 iota of how you lead and serve and love and ---!!! Help me accept your love; I want to sit down and eat.
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