You're just not yourself...

"For who can eat and who can have enjoyment without Him? " Ecclesiastes 2:5

I joined a group of friends last week for their last long training run before Saturday's half marathon. Midway through our run, one of them began complaining. We all laughed as we offered to buy him a Snickers telling him that "he just wasn't himself when he was hungry." Let's face it though, it's hard to be in a good mood when you're either hungry or hurting and those hills weren't easy. But we can still keep our joy in any situation.

And when it comes to joy, we're just not ourselves without the Lord. In Ecclesiastes 2:5 Soloman asked the question, "who can eat and have enjoyment without Him?" and Psalm 16:11 says, "In Your presence is fullness of joy". In his presence? That's everywhere! Is there any road we can run or any place we can go that his Spirit will not be with us? Praise God, the answer is no. Joy can be found everywhere.

If you're simply not feeling the joy, why not grab yourself a snack and your bible and feast on the Word? Let God fill you with his presence and fill you with his joy.  

Heavenly Father, help us to remember that you are with us wherever we go. While there will be times we will all feel "hungry" and irritable, help restore our spirits as we remember that joy is not found in our circumstances, belongings or anything else. It's found in your presence. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

In your presence, there is fullness of joy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MS2L6XekYdc

Purposeful life

"Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green." Psalm 92:14

Hidekichi Miyazaki,nicknamed the "Golden Bolt" because of his imitation of runner Usain Bolt's victory stance, set a new Guiness World Record for the 100 meter dash last Wednesday. The 105 year old man from Japan ran it in 42.22 seconds. If that's not amazing enough, consider that Mr. Miyazaki didn't even start running until after he turned 90 and broke that same record when he was 103 and 104. Certainly goes to show that a person can still do great things at any age. 

Throughout the bible, there are countless stories of saints whose last days were some of their best days.  Moses and Aaron were both in their 80's when they led the Israelites out of Egypt. Daniel served God from the days of his youth for over 70 years and Elizabeth was "well advanced in years" when she gave birth to John the Baptist. Scripture is filled with the stories of people chosen to do great things later in life who, "even in old age" still produced fruit and remained "vital and green."

Most people retire at the age of 65. But retiring from God's work should never be an option. Years of following him, trusting him and reading His word has prepared you for what God has planned next. So whether you're 29 or 99, if you have a pulse, God has a purpose for you. Will you let him use you?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us. Thank you for preparing us for service and for choosing us to be a light in this dark world. No matter how old or what disabilities we may have, show us how we can do great things for your glory. Show us your purpose for our lives Lord. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Through it all - Selah

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDxTGW8DPhs

http://www.runnersworld.com/briefs/105-year-old-man-pulls-a-usain-bolt-after-setting-world-record

Friend or enemy?

"You adulterers! Don't you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God." James 4:4

Would you expect to finish a race using only one leg? Of course not. Not only would it be foolish,  it would be impossible to complete in the allotted time. We know this yet, when it comes to our walk with Christ and the race to the finish line, that's what so many of us Christians are doing - running along with one foot in the world and the other in Christ. 

James 4:4 asks the question, "Don't you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God?" An enemy is defined as: a person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something. So when we follow the ways of the world, even in the least bit, we are opposing our Lord. There is no in-between and no running along the center line in this race. James stresses that when he repeats the warning, "If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God." And that means there are only two options... by what we want and do, we make Christ either a friend or an enemy. The choice is entirely yours. 

Perhaps you're that person wanting to follow Jesus but wanting to follow what the world says too? You are either with Him or you aren't. It's that simple. Won't you choose to make Him your friend today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you want our total commitment. You long to call us friend and lavish love upon us as only a friend would do. My prayer is that those that call themselves Christians, would turn away from the world completely and follow you today with all their heart, soul and mind. May we be set apart and followers and friends of yours Lord. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Friend of God - Phillips, Craig and Dean

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

Trust

"I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers!" Isaiah 65:24

I was up and out of the house early Saturday morning intent on getting in a run with friends and being back to my house by 9 am to go to my son's soccer tournament. I knew if I timed it right, I might even have enough time to sit down and eat. Imagine my dismay as we prepared to start when I locked my car and shut the door only to see my keys on the front seat. "Noooooo!" I shouted. But not one to delay a run, off we went. I knew the situation would be the same when I returned but one thing would be different... my attitude.

While it's totally true that we can't run away from our problems, we can take a break from them to pray and trust that God would give us a solution. In the midst of trouble, it's so easy to be overwhelmed with the situation that we forget Who it is that already knows what we need and is there to provide it. The bible tells us that God answers us before we even call out to him. In fact, while we are still talking about our needs, he will go ahead and answer our prayers. Had I stayed to try to "fix" things, I would have missed out on some great fellowship with friends. And yes, I did make it home by 9 am (with 5 minutes to spare). How's that for answering a need?

Perhaps you feel overwhelmed today with things that are out of your control? Maybe even situations you've brought on yourself? Won't you take a moment or two to walk or run from it? He knows what you need most, it's to trust in Him... in things big and small.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminders that you love us. You know everything that we are going through and will go through and use these situations to strengthen our faith in you. As we trust you in the small things, we learn to trust you in the big things. And then nothing seems very big at all. Help us to trust you in all things! It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I will trust in You - Lauren Daigle

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

Promises

"I will come to your temple with burnt offerings and fulfill my vows to you—vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke when I was in trouble." Psalm 66:13-14

Have you ever made a deal with God? You know, if you will only do this, then I will do that? If we're honest, most of us would answer yes to that question and especially if you have ever run a long distance race. Oh Lord, please get me to the finish line and I promise to go to church every Sunday. Or maybe it was please get me out of this mess and I promise I will never do that again. Well... did you fulfill your end of the bargain? And, if so, for how long?

Most of us use this tactic when we are in trouble and have no other way out. We are desperate and will do anything to make things right. We may have every intention of fulfilling the vow we made but soon forget it and drift back into our old ways and habits. The writer of this psalm made a promise to God that he we prepared to keep. He came seeking God saying, "I will come to your temple offerings and fulfill my vows to you- vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke when I was in trouble."

What God says, He will do. What He vows, He fulfills. God wants us to follow that example and be men and women of our word. Perhaps there's a promise left unkept today? Whether it be between you and God or you and another person, may today be the day you fulfill that oath and be an example to others.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the many times that you have come to our rescue. We thank you that what you have vowed, you will do. Thank you that there is never any doubt of your faithfulness. May we follow that example today and be men and women of our word. May we keep any promise left unkept and fulfill any vow abandoned today. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Promises - 7eventh Time Down

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cELypq5XO5k&list=RDcELypq5XO5k#t=0

Overcome

"I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." Luke 10:19

Last week, while running with a group of friends, I spotted a small snake. As I went to run around it and urged the others to do the same, one of them immediately stopped, picked up his foot and crushed it with his heel. As if once wasn't enough, he did it over and over and then remarked, "that looked to be a poisonous snake and it would have gotten bigger."

Sin is much the same way isn't it? It starts off small and if left alone grows. Did you know that most people don't know they have to power to defeat it though? They will simply live with it. Whether it be an addiction, a habit or a lifestyle, they will let it poison their spiritual and physical health over and over again believing they are too weak to ever change. But the bible tells us that, through Jesus, we have been given the authority to stomp out sin and to overcome the enemy so that nothing can harm us.

If you're struggling with a sin today. let God give you the power to overcome it. Through Him, you and I have the authority to pick up our feet and crush it once and for all. Let today be the day you receive freedom in His name!

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us all the power and authority we need to rid our lives of the sin keeping us from a closer relationship with you. Through Jesus we can live the life you intended for us free from the weight of sin and the power of the enemy. Help us to stay strong in the faith with eyes wide open that we might be aggressive in stomping out sin while it is still small. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

You can't hold me down - All Things New

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7l6GZNlZqVs&list=RD7l6GZNlZqVs#t=0

Good enough

"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." Ephesians 2:8,9

Monday's headlines read, "It Just Became Even Tougher to Get Into Boston". Apparently being "good enough" to qualify won't guarantee you entry any longer. As the registration is now set up to allow entry in waves, first to the runners that beat their qualifying times by 20 minutes, then those that exceed it by 10 minutes and then 5 minutes... if left very few slots for those runners that believed that merely qualifying would assure them entry. It goes to show that sometimes our best efforts are simply not good enough.

Many of us treat Heaven much the same way, don't we? We work hard and do good deeds thinking if  we can be "good enough" we will get in. But the bible tells us something much different. There's nothing we can do to earn our way in and we can never be "good enough" to qualify for entry. Scripture tells us that it's by grace we have been saved through faith. And this is not anything we have or can do on our own by any amount of works. It is, pure and simple, the undeserved gift of God

So you see, we will ever be good enough. But there is one who is, Jesus Christ. And because of his goodness, he has promised entry for all who believe in Him. Isn't it great to know that this is a race we can all run?

Heavenly Father, thank you for saving us, not because of anything we have done but because of who  you are. Thank you for loving us so much to grant us Salvation if we would only believe in you. Thank you for the free gift of grace that we could never earn and that we don't deserve. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Who am I - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvTz6k7cTIA

http://www.runnersworld.com/boston-marathon/it-just-became-even-tougher-to-get-into-boston

Shout praise

"Shout to the LORD, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy!" Psalm 98:4

Sunday morning I awoke to find that I was very hoarse. Shouts of encouragement and congratulations from the previous day's race had left me with very little voice much to the delight of my husband. As the worship music began to play at church later, the praises flowed even as I had to mouth most of the words. While God loves to hear our shouts of adoration, He also loves to see a heart fully devoted to his worship. And whether or not I could say it in words, I basked in his presence as every part of my being sang the praises my mouth could not. 

Did you know that the command to praise God is mentioned approximately 250 times in the bible? And many times the command is followed by an exclamation point. By definition an exclamation point is: a mark used especially after an interjection or exclamation to indicate forceful utterance or strong feeling and as a distinctive indication of major significance. Could there be any act more significant than praising our Savior? I think not!

So today, and everyday, let us Shout to the Lord and break out in praise and sing for joy! May we praise Him for his loving kindness, faithfulness, protection and the many good things He has done. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the multitude of blessings you have bestowed on us. We are undeserving of any good thing that you could offer. But we praise you for being the awesome God you are! You are truly worthy of all our praise and we will shout your praise and sing for joy for the good things you have done! It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. And all God's people said...  Amen!

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Shout Praise - Israel Houghton

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRLX-J9_jV4

Rise and Shine

"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you." Isaiah 60:1

On July 2nd, 2015, Kyleigh Philips, a pretty and petite four year old little girl went home to be with the Lord after losing her battle with cancer. The Rise and Shine Half Marathon and 5k, which began as a fundraiser for her family, was sadly now a memorial run. So on Saturday, September 19th, dozens of runners gathered together to participate and honor this precious child most of us had never met. As her parents stood at the start line to join in a prerace prayer, my heart ached for them.

The earliest use of 'rise and shine' in print is said to be in Isaiah 60:1. The phrase was then said to be used as a wake up call for soldiers, rise meaning to get out of bed and shine (shine your boots) to get ready for the day and whatever your commander expected of you . As soldiers of Christ, we too should be ready and willing every day to do whatever it is God, our Commander in Chief, calls us to. From sunrise to sunset, from birth to death, may we rise to the challenge.

We will all die, that is certain-some at the tender age of four and some at the ripe old age of 94. But while it is today, may each of us 'rise and shine' grateful, willing and eager to carry out His instructions. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessing of another day. I pray that we would use it to help, love and serve others as you have called us to. May you give strength and peace to the family of Kyleigh as they wait to see her again. Help us to remember that each day is a gift and another opportunity to show others the joy of Salvation. May we be obedient to the calling. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Hope of the broken world - Selah

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2v1mgajZXqc

*Loved this race! Had some amazing and glorious hills as you would expect running in the Ozarks. Great volunteers, trophies and post race fun. God willing, we will do this again next year. 

http://www.gojim.tv/

https://www.facebook.com/RiseAndShine5k?fref=ts

The parents (in leather) and their pastor 

the first of many hills for the half marathoners

ready to get started for the 5k

off to a fast start for the 5k!

Prodigal son

“So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him." Luke 15:20

I love stories about running, especially those that end well. Luke 15:11-32 tells the story about a man with two sons who were given their inheritance early. The younger son took his portion, left home and wasted all his money on "wild living". As his money ran out, a great famine spread throughout the land and he began to starve. "He persuaded a local farmer to hire him, and the man sent him into his fields to feed the pigs. The young man became so hungry that even the pods he was feeding the pigs looked good to him. But no one gave him anything." (v.15-16) When he finally returned to his senses, he said to himself, "I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a servant.” (v. 18-19)

What happens next is the best part of the story, "while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him." His father didn't care what the son had done. He loved him so much that he ran to greet him and then immediately celebrated his return saying, "this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost but now he is found." (v.24)

Like the father in this story, God waits patiently for us to come to our senses. And just like that father, God doesn't care what you or I have done. He loves us so much that He wants to celebrate our return. Maybe you are that lost person today? He is waiting to welcome you home!

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would choose to forgive our sins and welcome us home when we have wandered away. What a celebration when the lost become found. I pray that those who have wandered away would come to their senses and return to You today. May those that are starving choose to run into your arms and feast at your table Lord. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Prodigal - Sidewalk Prophets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EI5jsa3D5xo

Get qualified

"If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9

No doubt many runners around the world this week will be submitting their registrations in hopes of being accepted into the coveted Boston Marathon. Known for hosting the most elite runners, only those who qualify will be granted entry. The qualifications require that a person, based on gender and age, run a qualifying race within a specific amount of time. For some that comes easy, but for most, it requires strict discipline and hard work.

While the majority of people will never be able to accomplish that goal (or desire to), there is a goal far greater, with a far greater prize, waiting for all us to claim... eternal life. The bible tells us that the qualifications for salvation are to declare that "Jesus is Lord" and to accept and believe in our hearts that "God raised him from the dead." The bible makes it clear that by doing so, "you will be saved." Do you believe that today? If so, have you told someone? If you truly believe, you won't be able to contain the wonderful news that Jesus Christ is Lord!

Like training for a race, following Christ will take the utmost discipline and hard work, but we will gain entry into the greatest event of all time... eternal life spent with Him! Isn't that a goal worth aspiring to?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would wish to spend eternity with us. May we share our faith with all we know and declare our belief that Jesus died for our sins and that you God raised him from the dead that we might be saved. Help us to be bold as we live for you. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Say what you believe - Echoing Angels

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

Every good thing

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17

As I was nearing the end of my run, I glanced down at my watch. Hmmm, not even 9 am yet and I had so much to be thankful for already. Good things that only God could have gifted me with. I woke to a warm home with electricity. The water tap opened with a simple twist to provide a cold glass of clean H2O. I got to then wake up two healthy and amazing children and get them off to school. And then, because of the health, time and ability God has blessed me with, I got to enjoy a run amidst changing leaves and fall like weather while listening to my favorite Christian radio station. I couldn't help but praise the Father for the good and perfect day that was beginning to unfold.

The bible tells us that "every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father." Do you know what the definition of a gift is? It's a thing given willingly to someone without payment, a present or a natural ability or talent. The things that we so freely enjoy like our homes, health and family are given to us by God as is our ability to enjoy them. But we sometimes rush through our day failing to see the day for what it is... a present, a good and perfect gift that only the Father can give us. 

So today, won't you take a moment to reflect on the many things that God has blessed you with? And then, won't you take the time to thank Him for them?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of today. May we use this day to sing praises to your name and to boast of the great things you have done for us. Thank you for continuing to bless us with presents even when we show little or no gratitude. Thank you Father for every good and perfect gift from above. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Every good thing - The Afters

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FY2ycrpbOlw

Azalea Half Marathon

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. " Jeremiah 29:11

Saturday, September 12, was the third annual Azalea Half Marathon and 5k/10k race. And what a beautiful day for running it was with fall like temperatures that were perfect for both runner and spectator. Having run it before, my friends and I knew we were in for some rolling hills and then some bigger ones. And we weren't disappointed. The course was just as we remembered, well almost. At the finish line, in between dancing to YMCA and the other songs playing, we laughed as we all admitted that the hills were a tad bit bigger than we recalled. It seems time has a way of changing things, like our memories, from one year to the next.

But change can be such a wonderful thing. Last year, at this every same race, my dear friend had just suffered miscarriage number four. Not one to question God's plan for her life, she joyfully ran the half marathon and continued to pray. No matter what the future held, she knew one thing for certain. God's plan would be better than anything she could ever imagine, with or without a child. And His plan for her at this years race? To run the 10k so she could return quickly to her new baby and husband. God certainly had plans for her.. but in His time.

I've heard it said, as quoted by Norman Vincent Peale, that "God answers prayer in three ways; yes, no and wait awhile."  You see, not only does God know what is best for us, he also knows when it is best for us. No matter where you are right now and no matter what the answer to your prayers may be, one thing is certain-God has plans for you, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Are you willing to wait for the answer?

Heavenly Father, thank you for knowing what's best for our lives. When your answer to prayer is no or wait, help us to keep the faith knowing that answer means that something much better is in store for us. Help us to remember that your plan for our lives is the perfect one. May we keep our faith and joy while we wait for it to unfold as we continue to trust in You. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I know the plans - Morris Chapman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h17U_rOZP80

Luke Morrison took 3rd overall and 2nd in his age group

Having fun!

The new parents

crossing the finish line honored to share the "message"

Sherry Wilson had a great race!

Krystal Hash pushed her stroller and son for 13.1 miles of hills!!
Love this race!!

Take the time

"Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well." 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8

As I was walking to the starting line of a marathon several months ago, I spotted a woman knelt down surrounded by a few friends. As starting time was quickly approaching, she looked frantic as she was struggling to attach her timing chip to her shoe. Her friends complicated and hurried instructions seemed to only frustrate her further. As I approached them closer, I offered help to the new runner explaining that the process was much easier than the instruction sheet made it seem. With relief revealed in her smile, she welcomed the offer. And as I knelt down to attach it to her laces, I gently explained step by step how it was done.

Taking time for new believers is much the same way. In fact, in 1 Thessalonians 2:7, Paul wrote that he was like a spiritual parent to the new believers when he wrote, "Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you." You and I  can and should be like caring parents for new believers -watching over them, nurturing them, encouraging them, correcting them and guiding them. We should be loving them so much that we delight in sharing "not only the gospel of God but our lives as well."

Perhaps you know someone struggling today with their faith or understanding of Christ. Won't you take the time to care for them and to help them? By doing so, you will be teaching them both with words and with actions. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us to be your hands and feet. Thank you for the honor of bringing the message of Salvation to a dying world. Help us to care so much for others that we would always be looking for ways to help. And may we daily read your Word that we might be ready to nurture others in it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Jeremy Camp - Take my life

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyZC7-KeUfE

There will be a day

"... and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." And He who sits on the throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new..." Revelation 21:3-5

Today, Patriot Day, marks the 14th Anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. It is believed that 2,977 people died in the attacks that forever changed our nation. I, like most Americans, will never forget where I was that day and the fear that gripped me. As I arrived at work and joined my coworkers around a table, all eyes were on the North Tower now on fire from the first plane that had struck at 8:46 a.m. Unable to turn away from the carnage, we watched horrified and crying as the second plane crashed into the South Tower at 9:03 a.m. 

And as the rest of the days events unfolded, I yearned  for a better world... one without tears, pain, death and sorrow. And praise God there is one. No matter what you are going through right now or what happens in this world, this is not the end of the story. Oh no! Scripture clearly tells us there will be a day when we will dwell with God. There will be a day when every tear will be wiped from our eyes - a day when there will be no more death, mourning, crying or pain for He who sits on the throne is making all things new. 

As we observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., let us remember those that died on this day 14 years ago, pray for their families and praise God that the story didn't end there. We have so much more to look forward to... a day when all things are made new. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that tells us, no matter what we face in this life and no matter what tragedies come our way, we will spend eternity with you. We will reside in a new heaven free from death, mourning, crying and pain. May we remember those that lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and pray for the families touched by this tragedy. May they find peace knowing this is not the end. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

There will be a day - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjelKs4uPYs

Move forward

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

Two weeks ago, Molly Huddle lost the 10,000 meter race at the World Championships in Beijing by .09 second after she raised her arms in victory before she crossed the finish line. That small mistake gave her teammate the opportunity to pass her and claim the bronze medal. At last Monday's New Haven 20k Road Race,she came back to be the first woman to successfully defend her U.S. 20k title. Speaking about her Beijing experience, she said, "It obviously doesn't make up for it, but it is a step in the right direction." By not looking back at her past mistake, she was able to press on toward her goal.

Like Paul, who held the coats of those who had stoned Stephen (the first Christian martyr) and persecuted hundreds of Christians, we all have things we have done in our past that we struggle with, things that keep us from moving forward. But when Paul said that he was "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.., " he knew moving forward was crucial in achieving the prize God had called him to. And he knew that looking to what was behind would only take his eyes off the goal. How about you? Are you letting the past hold you back? Have you lost sight of the goal?

Let today be the day we take a step in the right direction too... towards Christ and the life he has planned for us. A life free from the past and full of hope knowing we are forgiven!

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to die on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. When the past comes up Lord, remind us that we are new creations and help us to press forward that we might be, undeterred by guilt and, focused on the goal of knowing you and serving you. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

That was then - Josh Wilson

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

Be that friend

"My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins." James 5:19-20

Last week while running with a friend, I was lost in conversation as I was talking to her when, out of nowhere, she shoved me... hard. Before I could say anything or ask why, she screamed "Snake!". Still feeling the sting of her push, I looked down to see the snake that had been in my path. Had she not reacted as she had, I would have stepped right on it. Once my pulse returned to normal, I thanked her. We laughed and agreed that keeping one another safe is what friends are for.

The bible tells us that we are to do the same for our Christian brothers and sisters. If we see one of them wandering away from the truth, we should help bring them back. Rather than being worried about offending someone and keeping quiet, we must be a friend that will take action. Galatians 6:1 tells us that "if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently..". It's not enough to merely hope they will turn to God, we must pray and act.

Perhaps you know someone that might be straying off course today? Will you be the friend to help? Remember that "whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins." Again I ask, will you be that friend?

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us Christian brothers and sisters to help keep us on track. If we are straying off course, I pray a friend would bring us back. And if we know of a believer wandering away from the truth, may we be bold enough to restore that person gently. Help us to be true friends to one another, loving them so much that we would do anything to save them from death. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I will be your friends - Michael W. Smith

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

HOA Marathon 2015

"The LORD himself watches over you! The LORD stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night." Psalm 121:5-6

The Heart of America Marathon in Columbia, MO is described by the Columbia Track Club as "one of the oldest and toughest courses in America". With some of the biggest hills a person could ever encounter in a marathon, I would have to agree with that. And with the forecast of 90 degrees and above predicted for yesterday's race, my friends and I were sure it was going to be even tougher. With a 6:00 am start, we ran the first few miles by the dim light of the rising sun. As it soon revealed it's full form, what a relief it was to see that we had cloud cover... sweet, beautiful and shielding cloud cover for 26.2 miles.

Thousands of years ago (think Old Testament times), one of the chief dangers for pilgrims and travelers was the heat of the sun. Without any protection, they could easily succumb to the effects of its rays and become sick or even die as they traveled through lonely country to their destination. How it brought a smile to my face to think that God is still providing shade to those He loves today. In fact, the bible tells us that the Lord himself watches over us.

As Christians, we too are pilgrims in this world on a pilgrimage to our final destination. But until you and I reach that place, it's crucial that we trust God to lead us there safely. He has promised that the "sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night." In other words, God's watching over you and me ... 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Isn't that awesome to know?

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would watch over us each day. While we may not understand why we are allowed to encounter trials, sickness and heartache in this world, help us to remember that You will never leave us and will lead us to our final destination if we will continue to trust You. When we are alone or afraid, please remind us that You are watching over us day and night. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Shelter me - Bruce Carroll

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XrjQzTxpM8

Blessed to run with two of my dearest friends

My friend, Sherry, completed her first marathon at HOA

Labor Day

"This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot. Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart." Ecclesiastes 5:18-20

Labor Day in the United States is a public holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September. The day is set aside to honor the American labor movement and the contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. No doubt most Americans will spend the holiday with family and friends relaxing and enjoying the day while others, like me and a few of my friends, will run a marathon. Whatever you and I are doing this holiday though, may we all remember to give thanks to the Provider of all the things we enjoy... our family, our homes, our children and yes, even our running. 

Many times we can take pride in our possessions and the all the hard work it took us to achieve them that we fail to remember where they really came from. Our jobs and all we have are a gift from God including, as Soloman wrote, the ability to enjoy them, to accept our lot and to be happy in our work. While we can certainly enjoy our things, our things are not and should never be the source of our joy... Christ alone should. 

On this Labor Day, may we give thanks to the Giver of all we have. May our hearts be full of gladness for the gifts he has given and may we enjoy this day that the Lord has made. And may you have a blessed Labor Day.  

Heavenly Father, thank you for everything you have given us. Thank you for our jobs, our homes, our families and our friends that help make this life more enjoyable. We know that our days are few Lord, but may they be filled with the gladness of heart that only you can give. May we continue to be grateful every day remembering that every good thing comes from you and you alone. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Every good thing - The Afters

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1mMgPA0iJE

Give love

"But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil." Luke 6:35

All around the country yesterday,the temps were 10 degrees (or more) higher than average for this time of year. The oppressive heat in Langhorne, Pennsylvania didn't stop one determined 11 year old from going for a run though. Ryan Tarapchak made a commitment to go for a run every day between August 8 and September 8 and he has not let anything, including the weather, stop him. For almost a month, he has been running to help raise funds for Isabella O'Brien, his friend's 6-year-old sister who was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. His initial goal was to raise $10,000 but he has surpassed it by $1,000 with a week remaining. 

Isabella's father said, "For an 11-year-old kid deciding to do something like this so selflessly for someone else, his parents should be very proud of him. Most kids want to spend their summer going to the pool or parties, but Ryan wants to spend every day running in 95-degree weather to raise money for someone else.” The selfless act of helping another is exactly what we should be doing at every opportunity as well. In fact, the bible commands us to "do good... expecting nothing in return," Here was a boy who simply saw someone in need and heeded the call. Have we?

As Christians, are we looking for opportunities to help others? Are we heeding the call? Might we all learn something from Ryan and today look for ways we might do good for someone else expecting nothing in return. What a difference we could make!

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example you set by loving others selflessly. May we strive to daily love our enemies, help those in need and to do good that others may see You in us. Open our eyes to see the opportunities around us to do so and to heed the call. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Give Love - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjOn5VrrYGc

http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/11-year-olds-running-streak-raises-10000-for-friend-with-cancer

A divine appointment

"The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives." Psalm 37:23

Have you ever had a "divine appointment"? Before you say no, consider it's meaning... A divine appointment is a meeting with another person that has been specifically and unmistakably ordered by God. Several years ago, after crossing the finish line of the St. Louis Marathon, I realized (once again) that I had no idea where I had parked my car. Wearing a mylar blanket and donning a finisher's medal, I slowly began my search as I was approached by a car. "Do you need a ride?" they asked. Seeing that they too were wearing finisher's medals and would not have the energy to either kill or kidnap me, I climbed in. This was unmistakably God's handiwork and I was grateful.

As I reached my car, I thanked them and stepped out at the exact moment an old friend from high school was walking down the road in busy downtown St. Louis. As he yelled my name, I turned around to realize this was certainly no "chance meeting" either. We hugged, laughed and talked about the different paths our lives had taken.  I listened as he explained how he had recently gone back to school and wasn't sure of his future (or his faith I felt). And as I told him about the things God was doing in my life, he smiled. One last hug and I wished him well. As I walked away, I prayed that no matter what the future held for him, today he would make the decision to let Christ be the center of it.

This "chance meeting" was not by chance at all you see. It was specifically and unmistakably a "divine appointment". So today, if your schedule is interrupted or you are forced to go a different way, remember that God is directing your steps and every detail of your life. He may just be scheduling a "divine appointment" for you. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would delight in every detail of our lives. May we be open to the plans you have for us and in constant communication with the Holy Spirit that we might not miss a divinely orchestrated appointment. May you use us to bless, comfort and help others. And mostly to bring the message of salvation to a hurting world. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Give them Jesus - Jaci Velasquez

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNW87ZdSqhY

The same Power

"The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you." Romans 8:11

Would you call yourself an underachiever if you weren't doing the things you knew you had the power to do? Like if you were able to run a four minute mile but settled for an eight? Or you were capable of a promotion but unwilling to do the work? Or perhaps you just don't feel that you have control over some areas of your life and have learned to just accept it rather than change it? Wikipedia defines underachiever as: a person who fails to achieve his or her potential or does not do as well as expected. And by that definition, aren't we all underachievers then?

But the bible tells us that the same power "who raised Jesus from the dead" lives in us. The bible is clear on how great that power is when it tells us that, "God made the earth by his power...When he speaks in the thunder, the heavens roar with rain. He causes the clouds to rise over the earth.He sends the lightning with the rain and releases the wind from his storehouses." (Jeremiah 10:12, 13). 

With that knowledge then, why are we not attempting great things? Why are we living as if we are helpless to change our situations? God's promise is true, all of us have all the power we need living in us. Might we begin living today as believers of that. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for equipping us with the power to move mountains and change any circumstance we are in. That immensity of that power is unfathomable to grasp and yet your Word tells us that it lives inside each one of your believers. Open our eyes and hearts Lord to realize just how strong we are and to make an impact on this world. How different the world would be if every Christian realized just how powerful they were. And if we can't change the world today Lord, let us change ourselves, our families and our communities for the better. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Same Power - Jeremy Camp

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