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?
