The greatest monument

"When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. Above his head they placed the written charge against him: this is jesus, the king of the jews." Matthew 27:35-37

On January 28, 2015, a photo was taken of a man shoveling snow off the finish line of the Boston Marathon. With the city literally snowed in, why did one man take the time to clear a portion of Boylston street? Matt Laudini, a local bartender, told the Boston Magazine that he cleared the finish line to send a message,"I love the Boston Marathon and everything it stands for... it doesn't deserve to be covered in snow." Adam Reynolds, who snapped some of the photos, said that the spot had particular significance for him, "My wife finished the marathon a few minutes before the explosions, so while I was in town I went to take pictures to send her." The finish line of the Boston Marathon has become a memorial to the people of Boston and runners around the world that we will not let evil prevail.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2015/01/28/boston-marathon-shovel-snow-finish-line-blizzard/22478471/

Throughout history, people have honored the sites where either exceptionally good things have happened or horrendous ones. All around the globe, there are monuments to mark the moments we want to remember or simply cannot forget. Nowhere in the world, though, is there a monument of more significance than Calvary. It could have been the site of the greatest tragedy in history had there not been reason to celebrate.  Following the crucifixion of Christ, the bible tells us, "that he was buried," and "that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures," (1 Corinthians 15:4). Romans 4:25 says, "He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God." Because of His resurrection, Calvary became a place of celebration!

1 Corinthians 6:20 reminds us that, "you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." May we live our lives in tribute for the sacrifice given at the cross of Calvary... the greatest monument of love.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the love you have shown to us. We are mere sinners deserving death and, yet, you sent your only son to save us from what we have earned. May we spend our lives giving back the honor and praise you are due and strive to live for you every day. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Calvary - Hillsong Worship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9XDdSCAnmY

What do you value?

“Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root." Mark 4:3-6

This winter has brought some crazy temperature and weather changes. From negative 15 degree wind chills and snow to yesterday's very windy 64 degrees, I am grateful that I have the clothing to run in whatever the day holds. As performance gear can get quite expensive, I've managed to find most of mine at a discount or at thrift stores and garage sales. I find it amazing how much people will pay for things and then sell for pennies on the dollar. It goes to show that the things a person finds valuable today might just be the things they view as valueless later.

While many people will remain faithful to Christ, the bible tells us that many will fall away.  Luke 8:13 says, "Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away." Some people love the idea of free salvation and eternal life through Jesus but they fail to develop a love for Him... they never realize how valuable He is. So when trial comes or it suits them better to follow another teacher or doctrine, they abandon Him for the easier way... considering Him valueless. How sad that they can't see that a life with Jesus is of immeasurable worth.

Luke 8:15 goes on to say that,"the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop." These are God's people... the ones who have roots. Rooted in the love of Christ, they will go on to serve Him and persevere until the day God calls them home. How about you? Do you know the value of knowing Him?

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your gift of salvation and eternal life. I pray that all those who hear your voice would be rooted in your love and not fall away. Open our eyes to see how priceless you are. Nothing in this world can compare to you and I pray that we would all believe that today. In your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

This is Amazing Grace - Phil Wickham
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FkxxNuO6PM

Lace up those shoes

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!"" Isaiah 52:7

When it comes to choosing the proper pair of running shoes, the selection might leave you feeling as if the room was spinning. Neutral, stability, pronation, heel striker, trail shoes ... who makes up these words anyway and what does it all mean?!! It means you need to research your needs before buying a shoe. All runners are biomechanically different and what works for one may leave another with aches, pains and a missing toenail (or two). Here are 5 tips that will help:

1. Visit a local running store to have your gait analyzed based on your foot type and biomechanics.
2. Choose which feel is right for you.
3. Make sure you have a half to a full thumb’s nail length from your big toe to the end of the shoe.
4. Before buying, take a short run around the store to test the fit, function and comfort before you make your final purchase.
5. To prevent injuries replace your shoes every 300 to 400 miles depending on the surface that you run. http://running.competitor.com/2012/02/shoes-and-gear/top-5-shoe-buying-tips-for-runners_40880

Taking good care of your feet is important for all runners... especially those called to carry the message. Scripture tells us that the "feet of those who bring good news" are beautiful. Yes, even those with missing toenails and calluses. Romans 10:15 says, "And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, "How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!" There is a world waiting to hear about Jesus. There are people longing to know that there is more to this life than the life they are living. In a world desperate for hope, why aren't we "going and telling?"

Find the shoes that are right for you. Lace them up and get moving. How will they know if no one tells them?  Are you waiting for someone else to do it?  Let us be the ones to proclaim peace, bring good tidings and say to others "Your God Reigns!" In our words, actions and deeds, right NOW is the time for us to do something!

Heavenly Father, thank you for equipping us with everything we need to share the Gospel with a world in desperate need of hearing it. Whether it be by showing compassion to a neighbor or helping a total stranger, let us be people on the move... constantly striving to be a light to others. Remind us that we were bought with a price and that this life is not our own. May we spend our lives in service to you. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Do Something - Matthew West

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_RjndG0IX8

Take the risk

"By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence." 2 Peter 1:3

“I remember somebody asking, ‘Suppose we give this marathon and nobody comes?’” - James L. Fowler

The Marine Corps Marathon is the fourth largest Marathon in the U.S. and the ninth largest in the world. It is the largest marathon that doesn't offer prize money, earning its nickname, "The People's Marathon." What started off with 1,175 runners in 1976 now boasts more than 23,000 runners. And it all began with a big idea by one man. James L. Fowler, the founder of the MCM, died of heart failure Tuesday at the age of 84. He was a veteran on a mission to serve. It is said that, in the memo he wrote outlining his plan, one of his main goals was to promote community goodwill (at a time when the Vietnam war had caused tensions between the military and civilian populations). Well, he certainly did that... but it didn't come easy.  Dean Karnazes once wrote, "Any goal worth achieving involves an element of risk." How true that is.

In the pursuit of his dream to help others, Mr. Fowler was taking a risk. He risked being ridiculed, he risked being rejected and he risked being thought a fool. In pursuit of what he knew to be his calling though, he was prepared to take that risk. In our quest to follow and serve Christ, we risk the same. And sadly, because of this, many Christians will simply abandon the call. Rather than face any type of mockery or rejection, they will simply give up. 2 Timothy 3:12 tells us that, "everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted," but scripture also tells us that God has given us "everything we need for living a godly life."

How about you? Are you willing to risk everything to pursue living a godly life? For those that are, James 1:12 gives this promise, "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."

Heavenly Father, thank you for your presence in our lives. Thank you for the forgiveness of sins given to us by Jesus dying on the cross. May we remember the price He paid so that we might be willing to risk ridicule, shame and persecution to follow you and to answer the call you have placed on our life. Whatever it is Lord, remind us that you have the power to equip us to achieve it if we would only have the willingness to do it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Believer - Audio Adrenaline

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLDmrVPQd98&index=30&list=PLWvahZRxLnLMSWeULnub0CCeQzvxGM8hB

http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/founder-of-marine-corps-marathon-dies-at-84

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/story/military/2015/01/22/james-fowler-marine-corps-marathon-founder-dies/22161061/

Say what you mean

"But whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him:" 1 John 2:5

I'll pray for you. Ever said that to someone with absolutely no intention of doing so? Just last night I vowed to pray for a friend that was injured while training for a big race. Did I mean what I said? Absolutely. Nowadays though, it seems as if everyone is saying it. But most times what they really mean is, I'll be thinking about you. Does it really matter? Absolutely. The bible tells us that "whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected." And Deuteronomy 23:23 says, "You shall be careful to do what has passed your lips, for you have voluntarily vowed to the Lord your God what you have promised with your mouth." If we say we are going to pray for someone then, shouldn't we do just that?

Nowhere in scripture is there is a record of Jesus ever vowing to do something that he did not do. Simply put, if he said he would do it, he did it. And 1 John 2:6 says, "Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did." It's pretty clear then... if we are followers of Christ we should say what we mean and mean what we say. Let's live, love and speak intentionally. We would be better off to simply say "I'm sorry" than to make a commitment we are unable or unwilling to fulfill.

So today and every day, let us keep our promises. The words "I will pray for you" are not simply words. They are a vow... a vow to personally go before the Lord to plead on behalf of someone else. May we say what we mean and mean what we say and love others enough to take it to the Lord in prayer.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for allowing us to go to you in prayer for ourselves and for others. I pray that we would carry out our vows and love one another so much that we would not have second thoughts about fulfilling the promise we have made. I pray that we are intentional in our words and the actions that follow. Thank you Lord for always hearing our prayers and for loving us so much that you would allow us direct access to you any time of the day or night. Oh how we love you Father. It's in your most precious name that we ask these things, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Prayer for a friend - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EN3D0Carn3U

Put the past behind you

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." 2 Corinthians 5:17

In the iconic movie, Forrest Gump, Forrest said this about his cross country run, "My Mama always said you got to put the past behind you before you can move on. And I think that's what my running was all about. I had run for three years, two months, fourteen days, and sixteen hours....And just like that, my runnin' days was over." Like many of us, his running was an attempt to leave behind the many bad things he had experienced in his life and start new. Some people will run a few days and some will make a lifetime habit out of running away from their problems. The problem is... you can run your whole life and never change anything. You can't make the pain go away and you can't heal the wounds of the past. That is...without Christ.

The bible promises that if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation and the old has passed away. Too many people are living as if nothing changed within them when they accepted Christ into their heart. The past is gone. Isaiah 43:25 says, "“I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins." If God has forgiven us and given us a new life in him (a clean slate), why have we not forgiven ourselves? One thing is certain, we cannot change our past, what's done is done. But in the wise words of Forrest, "you got to put the past behind you before you can move on." How can you do that? By laying it all at the cross every day and allowing Christ to dwell in your heart and to change it.

Ezekiel 36:26 says, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.". God offers us a fresh start every day. It's time to stop running and accept the offer. It's time to put the past behind you and move on.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your patience with us. Thank you for being faithful to us when we doubt you. When we doubt that we are truly forgiven, remind us. When we doubt that we are a new creation, remind us of that too. As many times as we need it Lord, remind us so that we stop running and put the past behind us. It's in your precious name we pray these things, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

This is a powerful video and song. I encourage you to watch it. Praise God, we are new!!

Jason Gray - Remind me who I am

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSIVjjY8Ou8

just Listen

"The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper." 1 Kings 19:11-12

As I set out for my morning run, I realized that my MP3 player was dead. Oh man, so much for a run filled with praise and worship music I thought. It didn't take long, though, to quickly and quietly settle into a rhythm. Listening to the gravel crunch beneath each footstep and each breath go in and out was actually quite calming. The sounds of Him were all around me... in the rustling of the leaves, the birds singing and the gentle breeze. This quiet time with the Lord turned out out to be exactly what I needed.

So often we only look for God in big ways (church, rallies, sermons, christian music) that we miss him in the small ways. God doesn't limit revealing himself in only miraculous or large ways. Sometimes we just need to step back from the noise and activity of our busy lives and simply be silent and listen for his voice. After he appeared to Elijah in "a gentle whisper", God revealed some very important things that he wanted him to do. Perhaps God is trying to get your attention too?

Make time today to listen with a quiet and humble heart to what God may be wanting to communicate to you in a "gentle whisper." I promise you it will be time well spent.

Heavenly Father, thank you for what you reveal to us when we are quiet and listening for your voice. May we make it our goal to spend time with you daily turning off the distractions and noise around us when we can. Let us be listening at all times to heart your voice and your will for our lives. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

None but Jesus - Hillsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DU4b15pVyo

In His strength

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

By now many people will have failed at keeping their new years resolutions. Whether it was losing weight, getting in shape or quitting a bad habit, good routines are hard to form and even harder to keep. General Norman Schwarzkopf once wrote, "The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it." I would definitely agree with that - The hard part definitely is doing what you know is right or good for you. That is, unless you do it with God's strength. 

Do you believe that? Or do you still have doubts? Perhaps you're not grasping then how big and mighty He is? Jeremiah 32:17 says, ""Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you." Did you get that? There is absolutely NOTHING he cannot do and the bible tells us that the same power and the same God that created all things is at work in us today. Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think." What kind of power then does that give you? The power to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. 

Wow, not some things - but the power to do all things through Christ who gives us this strength! So whatever "thing" you're looking to achieve or overcome, rely on his mighty power to accomplish it... and then to do even more than you ever dreamed or thought possible. After all, it is a mighty god we serve.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being bigger and mightier than anything we are facing or could ever face. Remind us that we have the power within us to do all things and that with your strength we can accomplish more than we could ever dream of. Help us then to boldly face any obstacles and to declare victory in your name. It's in your precious name we pray this, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Ashes Remain - On my own

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l7fhxNrrrM

Let's go for a run

"and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10:24-25

I absolutely love running with friends... old and new. There's no better way to get to know someone than to spend a few miles chatting and no better way to rekindle friendships than to do the same. There's just something about meeting together that motivates, uplifts and inspires a group of people to accomplish a goal. We had a group run this weekend with people of all different abilities, paces and endurance levels... but one shared purpose - to improve our lives through the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other. As I watched some of the veteran runners helping the new ones, I had to smile. We were all encouraging one another right where we were with the skills God individually designed for us.

You see, you don't have to be a world class runner to lead a group. You don't have to be a bible scholar to lead a prayer and you certainly don't have to be anything more than a person letting Christ's light shine through you to be a boost to someone else. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." There are no requirements to do this. John 15:12 simply tells us to, " love one another as I have loved you." And we do that with what we have, wherever we are, however God is leading us to do it.

With whatever gift or talent God has given you, put it to work. Let's not put aside gathering together but let's encourage one another as often and with as much love as we can. In the words of Peter, ""As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace" (1 Peter 4:10). Wanna go for a run?

Heavenly Father, thank you for those people who will step up to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. I pray that we would use whatever gift or talent we have been given to serve one another and set people on fire for you. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Burning in my soul - Matt Maher

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ny5sRbmTNqw

What's in a Name?

"God said to Moses, “I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I am has sent me to you.’ ”God also said to Moses, “Say to the Israelites, ‘The Lord, the God of your fathers—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob—has sent me to you.’“This is my name forever, the name you shall call me from generation to generation." Exodus 3:14-15

How nice it was to run in the sunshine yesterday! After what seemed like endless days of sub zero temperatures and wind chills, the increased temperatures were welcoming. As I was enjoying his presence and the warmth of the sun, I found myself thinking of the clouds that had now given way to the bright and shining sun. The bible tells the stories of the many times God appeared to his people in a cloud. Exodus 19:19 says, "Yahweh said to Moses, "Behold, I come to you in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with you, and may also believe you forever.", and Exodus 34:5 says, "Then the LORD came down in a cloud and stood there with him; and he called out his own name, Yahweh." Who is this Yahweh? He is, quite simply, the LORD... the great "I AM".

It seems that God is so amazing, powerful and awesome that one name couldn't possibly tell us all about him. In fact, 1 Kings 8: 27 says, "even the highest heavens cannot contain you." The name Yahweh, meaning the LORD, is a proper name and, in old testament times, names were important in describing a person's character. Since God chose to reveal himself with this name, you know it's of major importance. The name "I AM", or Yahweh,  tells us that God has no beginning, no ending and no dependence. He is, was and always will be. He is perfect, constant and in control of everything. There is nothing that exists or will ever exist outside of his perfect will and nothing made or to be made without his perfect workmanship. He is the LORD and worthy of all our praise, worship and complete devotion. After all he is the great "I AM."

The name Yahweh was once considered so sacred and holy that the ancient Jews would not even say it out loud. Do we have that same reverence for the LORD today? If not, perhaps we don't understand him like we should. He has many more names, each one giving us greater insight into who he is. He's waiting to reveal himself to you if you're willing to explore his Word. Get to know him today, you won't regret it. 

Heavenly Father, you are such an awesome god that cannot be contained. We don't have the power and knowledge to grasp how mighty and powerful you are. As we seek to know you more, open our eyes and hearts and reveal yourself to us. Help us to understand who you are that we might have a renewed sense of respect and admiration for you. Thank you for who you are and for what your names reveal. It's in your most precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

This is a must watch!!! Very informative on explaining 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdRbywMH7kw

Love is the evidence

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen." 2 Peter 3:18

Running is a sport where you must work hard and train harder to grow and get better. And, if you are progressing as a runner, there will always be evidence of it. It will show in your faster times, your longer runs, your increased endurance and less fatigue. In fact, there are many apps and programs that can track your progress logging the time and mileage of each of your runs. If you're on social media, it's pretty hard to browse without seeing someone's latest workout results.

Our Christian life should be the same way. It should be as indisputable as our race results. Hebrews 5:13-14 says, "Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." The constant use Paul was talking about is a daily effort to train our minds to tell right from wrong - to indoctrinate our whole being to be sensitive to what God is calling us to and be careful what the devil is leading us to. To be ready to follow Christ and be prepared to fight Satan. Our ability to feast on solid food (a deeper knowledge of God) is limited only by our spiritual growth. We shouldn't be satisfied with milk (an immature knowledge of God) but should be growing daily. Only by training ourselves in the Word, praying for understanding and then applying it, will we bloom and flourish the way God intended.

Are you growing in your walk with Christ? Check the evidence. The bible tells us that those that are walking by the Spirit will produce fruit, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. " Galatians 5:22. Is the evidence of your maturity indisputable?

Heavenly Father, what a great and awesome god you are. It is a privilege and a blessing to read your Word every day and to grow in the knowledge of your being. I pray that we would hunger for that nourishment to feed our souls and cause us to thrive. May we constantly produce fruit that others may see and choose to follow you because of it. It's in your precious name that we pray these things, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Love is the evidence - Citizen Way

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyUxFTB2GdI

Socks or no socks

"Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

This is the actual picture he posted to Facebook before heading out on his run. 

Runners love their compression socks. Their claim to increase oxygen delivery, decrease lactic acid, prevent cramps, and minimize muscle fatigue has runners buying them up. With the promise of faster times and quicker recovery, they're hard to resist. But there is only one way to put them on as Fred Meyer, 49, discovered the hard way. Eager to try out his new pair of socks, his wife said he left for a run last August from his St. Cloud, Minnesota, home when the incident occurred. Although the socks were clearly marked with an L (left foot) and an R (right foot), he failed to follow the directions. After her husband arrived home screaming in pain saying, "My feet, my feet!", neighbors dialed 911 as she removed his socks. That's when she noticed that they were not on the correct feet. He was later diagnosed with "sudden catastrophic foot failure" caused by the asymmetrical-fitting socks being put on improperly. What's worse is, experts say this is not an isolated incident.

http://www.runnersworld.com/fun/sock-mishap-sends-runner-to-er

The bible tells us that there is only one way to Salvation - through Jesus. But there are many false religions, teachers and worldly beliefs that promise that living a good life and treating people well will bring us Salvation. Yet the Bible makes it clear that getting into heaven is not something we can accomplish in our own power. Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly teaches, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Being saved from sin and receiving eternal life cannot take place by our works. Getting into heaven requires faith in Jesus Christ. There is no other way! Period.

Putting your socks on the wrong feet can leave you with a lot of pain. Searching for Salvation apart from Christ will do the same. Acts 4:12 reminds us that, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Save yourself time and heartache by simply reading and following the instructions found in God's Word. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for caring so deeply about us that you would not condemn us in our sin and mistakes. I pray that we would all come to know the truth of the path of Salvation and that we would boldly share that with others. May we love one another enough to warn them of the dangers of ignoring the instructions to gain eternal life. In your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Get rid of it

"to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires,  and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,  and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness." Ephesians 4:22-24

Have you noticed that there are a lot of angry people in this world today? And runners are certainly not exempt from the emotion. On January 7, the Albuquerque Journal reported: Several staff members at Kennedy Middle School were injured Tuesday when they tried to stop a renegade jogger, who happened to have a military warrant for his arrest, running on the track during lunch. When an eighth-grade science teacher tried to stop him, Bradley Pfender, 37, allegedly shoved him to the ground and flipped him off before continuing on his run. It took the principal tackling him and a group of teachers helping to hold him down to stop him. Like most schools, only employees and students may be on the premises during school hours unless signing in. The teachers were merely trying to enforce that rule by politely asking Pfender to leave. This guy was angry! http://www.abqjournal.com/522645/news/wanted-man-assaults-teachers-principal-during-jog-on-schools-track-police-say.html

While some anger is justified (Matthew 21:12), most times it is not. The bible is very clear that only fools lose their temper. Ecclesiastes 7:9 gives us this warning, "Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool." and Proverbs 29:11 says, "A fool always loses his temper, But a wise man holds it back." Merriam-Webster defines a fool as a person who lacks good sense or judgment while the biblical definition would add “someone who disregards God’s Word.” Rather than being fools, we should instead be "quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry" (James 1:19). Not only will our fury make us look foolish, we could stand to lose our witness and turn others away from Christ.

We can't overcome anger on our own though. We can only overcome this emotion through God's strength, by being renewed in the spirit of our minds and putting on our new selves. In other words, to avoid being a fool, we need to die to self daily, '"knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin." Romans 6:6. Isn't a smile nicer to wear anyway?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessings you have given us. You are so awesome to provide us with peace and happiness in circumstances that might cause us to be angry. May we not follow the path of this world by reacting with rage but rather love others as you have loved us regardless of the situation. For your loving kindness every day, we praise you. In your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Water Grave - Imperials

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPqzuCQmS9o

I'm goin' down to the river.
And I'm gonna be buried alive.
I want to show my Heavenly Father,
The man I use to be has finally died.

The ultimate GPS

"Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!" 2 Corinthians 3:5 (ESV)

Run enough races and you will discover one of the main reasons people don't finish the race strong or don't finish at all. It's that dreaded four letter word every runner works at perfecting... pace. Merriam Webster defines pace as: the speed at which someone or something moves, or a single step or the length of a single step. So it makes sense then that each individual step you take will ultimately determine your overall pace. Why is that important? Go out too slow and you don't finish as well as you could - don't hold back. Go out too fast and you don't have enough energy to finish -don't wear yourself out. Only by staying consistent and focused will you run the best race you are capable of.

The easiest way to determine and track your pace is to use a GPS (Global Positioning System) enabled watch. It has the capability to show your time, distance and speed allowing you to track your progress and know when you are "off track". The same can be said of the bible. It is our ultimate GPS (God's Perfect Standard) by which to test ourselves. By becoming familiar with it, we can know when we are "off track". It provides everything we need to ensure that we are following the right path at the right time, and for the right distance and speed that God has individually assigned each of us. Only God knows what is right for us to finish the race strong and at our best.

While watches can fail, God will never disappoint. Psalm 33:4 says, "For the word of the LORD holds true, and we can trust everything he does." Examine and test yourself often. If you're off pace, He is there to put you back on the right track. Simply push the reset button and start new because, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Oh praise God for new beginnings!

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us everything we need to run the good race. As athletes in training, may we focus on you and your word to guide us along the path to the finish line. May we consistently test and examine ourselves against your truth that we might not get off course or off pace. And when the race is done, may it be you who is glorified. It's in your precious name that we ask these things, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

I want to know You - Sonicflood

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUXGxtYxjyg

I won't go back

"So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant." 1 Kings 19:21

Ever make a resolution to quit a habit or start something new only to slip back into your old ways? We are more than a week into the new year and many people are already struggling to keep moving forward. But what if we removed those things that we could return to? 1 Kings 19:19 tells the story of Elisha being anointed by Elijah to be the prophet to succeed him, "So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. "Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye, "he said, "and then I will come with you."

Elisha had a choice to make, continue what he was doing plowing the fields, or follow Elijah. By killing his oxen and burning his plowing equipment, he was making the ultimate commitment to follow God. He could no longer return to his life as a wealthy farmer. He completely removed the temptation to slip back into his old life... his comfortable, predictable and easy life. His resolution to change started with his commitment to remove any obstacle or temptation in his way. With nothing to go back to, he could only look up and move forward.

Maybe you're struggling with a habit you're trying to quit or maybe you long to have a closer walk with God? Whatever it is, the best way to ensure success is to remove those things that you may be tempted to come back to. Burn them if you have to and then set out to follow Christ "and become his servant."

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us second chances. Whatever we are struggling with, I pray that today would be that day that we would leave anything behind that doesn't help us move forward. I pray that we would remove any temptation that would cause us to turn back from you. Give us strength as we set out to follow you with the goal of eternal life and freedom from sin. In your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I won't go back - William McDowell

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsoKRSkg2KA

The setback

"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." 1 Peter 1:6-7

With temperatures dipping into the double negatives this week, it can be downright dangerous to run, walk or even work outside. Experts say that frostbite can occur within 15 minutes on exposed skin. This can be a setback if you're working towards a goal such as a spring race or weight loss. Let's face it though, life is full of setbacks and things don't always go the way we planned them. We can either choose to give up when things don't go our way or we can have faith that God will work out our situation. 

The bible is full of people, just like us, who despite setbacks chose to trust God's plan. Moses was raised in the royal palace, committed the act of murder and then spent 40 years in the desert as a fugitive and shepherd. Talk about a setback... but it prepared him for the ultimate comeback. God used him to deliver the Israelites from slavery into the promised land. Deuteronomy 34:10 even says that, "Since then, no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face,". Talk about a happy ending.

Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Just as he prepared Moses through trial and adversity, most times what we view as setbacks, God uses as opportunities. Whatever it is you're going through, hang on, God's not done yet.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the everything that you have given us. For the good things we thank you and for the hard times we praise you knowing that you are shaping us through all our experiences. Thank you for being with us through it all. In your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Your Love Oh Lord - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEF7IoQ3eUk

Fix your eyes

"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world." 1 Peter 5:8-9

On Sunday morning, in Torrington, Connecticut, Michael Walsh, 25, was fatally struck by a city snowplow. The story posted in Runners World (http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/runner-killed-by-snowplow), says he was struck at 5:14 a.m. while not wearing reflective gear, running with traffic and while wearing earphones. It's reported that he moved into the road to avoid a puddle or debris. Such a tragedy. 

Obviously we can't live in a bubble but there are certain things we can and should do when running outside this winter:

- Run facing traffic at all times

- Wear reflective clothing

- Turn down the volume on your earphones or leave them at home

- Look around before venturing out to avoid obstacles of any kind 

- Wear a Road ID to help emergency personnel identify any special needs

By following these steps and staying alert and aware of your surroundings, you can run safely through the winter season. The bible tells us to "be sober-minded" and to "be watchful" in our daily lives as well to avoid injury or death. It tells us that the "devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." Genesis 3:1 says, "Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?" And, you know the rest of that story... if Satan can trick Eve, who walked with God, how much more can we be tempted and tried if we aren't sober-minded and watchful?

Colossians 3:1-2 gives us this reminder, "set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." Stay focused, sober-minded and watchful at all times. This is the best way to stay safe in a world full of puddles, debris and trials. Above all, resist him and stand firm in your faith. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the tools to protect ourselves against the schemes of the devil. May we be ever watchful knowing that Satan is always looking to devour us. This is not a game and we know that the devil wants nothing more than to destroy your people. Help us to resist him and stand firm in the faith at all times. It's in your precious name that we pray this Jesus, Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Fix my eyes - For King and Country

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NM-Bf9gE0gw

Tell a friend

"Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus.  The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ).  And he brought him to Jesus." 1 John 40-42

 

Some of the best races I have ever run have been because of a friend's enthusiastic review of it. In fact, I would rely on the report of a friend before I would an ad or a magazine. We just trust that our friends want what's best for us. And they certainly know what we like. The book of John contains the story of the first disciples to follow Jesus. I love the attitude of Andrew who first followed Jesus and then went to tell his brother. Actually, scripture tells us that "the first thing Andrew did was to find his brother and tell him, "We have found the Messiah". Can you imagine hearing any better news?

And the story just gets better...."The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.” Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Wow! Even without cell phones and social media, Good News can travel fast when a person is excited about it. And yet, we have the Messiah here now and many of us aren't telling anyone. We will talk about a race or a PR but not about our Lord and Savior. Believe it or not, there are people who don't know about the Good News we take for granted. And there are people who just need to hear it again... the confirmation that Jesus loves them regardless of anything they have done.  

Is there someone you can bring to Jesus today? As disciples, why not follow the example of the first followers and share the news, "We have found the Messiah"? The witness of a friend can be a powerful thing.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the "Lamb of God" to come as a perfect sacrifice to save us from our sins once and for all. The bible tells us that you became flesh and dwelt among us. What a gracious and loving God you are for doing that. May we share that news with those who may not have heard it or need to hear it again. Let us be bold in our actions and show your love to others through them. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Messengers - Lecrae

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxW3stJHdJk

Are you a streaker?

"Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son." 2 John 1:9

The official definition of a running streak, as adopted by the Streak Runners International, Inc., and United States Running Streak Association, Inc., is to run at least one mile (1.61 kilometers) within each calendar day. Running may occur on either the roads, a track, over hill and dale, or on a treadmill. Ron Hill, 76, from England, just celebrated 50 years of "streaking". He even managed to run after breaking his sternum in a car accident and after bunion surgery (on crutches for a week) the same year. He said, "Once you get into the habit of it, you just do it. Just get wrapped up and get out the door. It's [my] advice to everybody—just start running and within five minutes you're in your stride and probably enjoying it."

Colossians 1:23 warns us, "Don't drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News." What better way of not drifting away and continuing "in the teaching" than by being a streaker? The kind of streaker, though, that vows to spend time with God everyday? What if, no matter the circumstance, we pursued Him with the same determination Ron Hill pursued running? It's reported that, during his streak, he ran an estimated 134,531.5 miles. I can assure you this required the utmost discipline, planning and determination... putting his goal before things he viewed as less important. His advice to get into the habit and just do it, is a great idea.

Forming a habit is as simple as repeating the same action over and over - just do it. No matter the circumstance, road block or obstacle, set aside time every day to spend with the Lord. Read your bible, listen to a podcast sermon or spend your morning run in praise and worship. Vow to let nothing get in the way of your "streaking" and see if it doesn't change your life. What you view as most important will determine your success. Does He come first?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you have given us. I pray that we would spend time with you every day praising you for them and praying for our loved ones. If we would do this, we could change our lives and the lives of those around us. Prayer is so powerful. May we yearn to be with you each and every day in prayer, fellowship and praise. It's in your precious name we pray this, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Matt Maher - I need You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuvfMDhTyMA

//www.runeveryday.com/
http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/ron-hills-running-streak-hits-50-years