"But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you." 1 Samuel 12:24
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| Sandra, Me, Jim, Cindy and Laura (L-R). It was cold! |
Saturday was a beautiful day for a run and we were blessed to take part in the 7th annual Lucky 13.1 race in Peculiar, Mo. It was an out and back course that was mostly flat with few turns allowing for some quick times for those chasing a PR. Loved the race and the post race refreshments including hot chocolate and macaroni and cheese... just what the runners needed to warm up after facing a strong, cold headwind in the first part of the race and then chilly temps for the second half. The aid stations were staffed with a fun bunch of adults and teenagers from the Raymore High School (where the race began and ended with a victory lap around the track) which always adds to the fun. Loved to see these young kids smiling and laughing as they passed out Gatorade and water and then dancing to the music at the finish line. God willing, we will be back to run it again.
There were five of us from TEAM 413 that went to the race but only three that were able to run. But we were all "runners" nonetheless and there for the same purpose... to glorify God through our actions and to be a witness to those whose paths we crossed. Cindy was injured and Laura was pregnant but that didn't stop them from doing what God had called them to do. They had the same purpose but now, due to life's changes, a different way to fulfill it. Being runners, they know what it takes to cross the finish line and they know what a runner needs to hear and were not shy about shouting words of encouragement and congratulations. And isn't showing kindness to others the best way to "serve him faithfully with all your heart."?
As I neared the end of the race, I watched them cheer the runners across the finish line before me and heard them yell my name as I crossed. I had to smile as I remembered the words of Proverbs 16:24 that says, "Kind words are like honey--sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Oh yes... shouts of encouragement are indeed sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. Thank God for people who embrace the new seasons in their lives... who, when faced with change, continue to serve Christ.
Perhaps your life has changed recently and you're wondering how you can serve Him in your new chapter of life? He has a purpose for you, of that you can be certain. But it's up to you to discover it. The first and best place to start your search is on your knees... simply pray that He would reveal it to you.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessings of friendship. You are so good to know that we strengthen one another, lift one another up and bring one another joy. Thank You for the gift of friendship Lord. And thank You for allowing us to serve You no matter what skills we have or situation we may be facing. Help us to embrace change as a blessing as You call us to serve in a different way. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
I will give you all my worship - Jeremy Camp
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| Sandra, Me and Jim |
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| Jim and me, freezing but overwhelmed with joy- God is indeed worthy of all our praise! |
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