What if?

"God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins." 1 John 4:9, 10

After the unexpected death of music icon, Prince, many of us may have added Purple Rain or another one of his songs to our running playlist. And no doubt many of us already had at least one song by Nichole Nordeman, am I right? What's the connection you ask? It's said that, after his return to Christianity later in life, Prince heard a popular song about Jesus while driving in the car. He said he was so touched by Nichole's song, 'What if?', that he decided to record a cover of it. When Nichole heard the news she said, "Prince heard a song about the transforming love of Jesus on Christian radio and now has given it a much wider audience than I ever did or could." 

What is this transforming love that can touch someone so deeply that they would turn to Christ? It's real love. It's a love so real that nothing could change it. It's a love so real that it remains even when unreturned. A love so real that it was given the ultimate sacrifice. That transforming love is the love of our Father who, "showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him." And, unlike the conditional and ever-changing love this world offers, "This is real love-not that we loved God, but that he loved us.." It's a love so real that it has the power to transform lives!

I wonder do you believe that today? And, if you do, have you shared the good news? While you and I may never reach that 'wider audience', we can certainly reach our own backyards. Because what if our neighbors don't know? What if we don't tell them? What if?

Heavenly Father, oh thank you for the many ways you give us to share your transforming love with the lost and those searching for answers. Many find it through music and others through your Word. Give us an urgency to reach people who are longing for answers to all of those 'what if' questions and then give us the words to lead them to the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

What if - Nichole Nordeman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M-rPbjmTCI

http://qpolitical.com/prince/

give it up

"Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall." Psalm 55:22

Jemima Sumgong, 31, of Kenya, was running a fast and consistent race keeping up with the lead pack for over 21 miles. Things were going well. But then at mile 22, out of nowhere, she was unexpectedly tripped up from behind by a competitor and came crashing down to the road (along with two other runners). Within seconds though, Sumgong, holding her head where she scraped the pavement, got back on her feet, back on pace and won the 2016 London Marathon Sunday. She later said, "I was never worried after falling. It was very painful, but I just tried to get back with the group as soon as possible.”

What a metaphor for life. At one time or another, when things seem to be going well, something unexpected will bring us crashing down. It could be a death, divorce, illness, financial disaster or any number of things. Christians are not insulated from the perils of this life and sometimes our problems can be more than we can bear. But you and I don't have to carry these burdens ourselves. The bible tells us that we are to give them to the Lord-those cares, worries and millstones that weigh down on us so heavily that we don't think we will ever get back up. And when we do that, we have this amazing promise, "and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall."

So you see, in order to get back up we have to first give it up. We have to rid ourselves of the things that weigh us down. And then, through Christ we can rise up in victory knowing that, in the words of Rocky Balboa, "Every champion was once a contender who refused to give up."

Heavenly Father, today we thank you for your promise to take our burdens that weigh us down. Today, Lord, may we have a renewed desire to live our lives to bring you glory. We know that can't be done if we are carrying our doubts, worries and past hurts around with us. So today, we give them to you and we move forward knowing that you will not let us slip and fall. Thank you Lord for taking care of us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Get back up - Toby Mac

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

The best plan

"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps." Proverbs 16:9

Harry Moulton. 23. had a plan. About a half mile from the Boston Marathon finish line, while running next to his girlfriend, Kellie Marshall, 24, he was going to set the stage for a marriage proposal. Oh yes-he had been practicing this romantic speech, and how he would give it at just the right moment, for months. But he could never have imagined how it would turn out. Being a first-time marathoner, he mistakenly drank too many liquids and was fighting the urge to throw up. Not only was he too nauseous to dare open his mouth to declare his love, upon finishing, he was barely able to wobble to one knee and pop the question before it happened. You guessed it. He projectile vomited. When asked by Runners World later about the incident he said he was glad that he didn't hit his wife-to-be's shoes (because of course she said yes).

This story just goes to show that, when it comes to making plans, you and I can never be really sure how they will turn out. The bible reaffirms that when it says, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." You see, you and I can have the best ideas and intentions but it is God who determines whether those ever come to pass. Many of us can and will arrange, design and outline our whole lives and the course we think it will take only to be surprised and frustrated when our aspirations turn out different than what we thought or expected. Wouldn't it be easier to know the path God would have us take from the beginning? Of course it would. 

But how can we know? Through prayer of course. By beginning each day speaking to the Director of our steps... before we get started on making our own plans for the day. Now doesn't that sound like the best plan? 

Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us to come into your presence each and every day with our requests for guidance, discernment and a heart that would stay focused on you. Lord, help us to come daily to your throne as we ask you to guide our paths and direct our steps. And help us to remember that our best laid plans are never guaranteed but yours are. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

You lead - Jamie Grace

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFmSzL2ppvg

http://www.runnersworld.com/boston-marathon/boston-finish-line-proposal-ends-with-yes-and-a-whole-lot-of-vomit#

Step out

"Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing... So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. " Joshua 3:15-16

It is said that the waters of the Jordan River, in their late flood stage, pass through 27 sizable rapids and cascade between the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea near Jericho dropping about 600 feet over 65 miles. At that time, the river's average 4 mile an hour current more than doubles to 10 miles per hour and, at their point of crossing, the normal 180 foot wide span would have more than doubled as well. Could the timing and location make their crossing any more impossible to achieve? I think not. Yet this was the time and place that the Lord told Joshua to instruct the Israelites to cross over into the promised land. With the waters raging around them, but the ark of the covenant (God's presence) before them, they made their way to the water's edge. And just like that, thanks to insurmountable circumstances, God demonstrated his power and faithfulness. 

As I pondered this story yesterday, I was humbled to think that, only a week earlier, I was facing a seemingly impossible obstacle myself. While I most certainly knew that God was calling me to run the Boston Marathon, I was also certain that, from a human standpoint, it was foolish. How was I going to run 26.2 miles with a limp and improper training? Well that, I finally surmised, was not my dilemma to solve. I merely needed to show up at the start line and trust God to work that one out. And that He did! I may never know this side of Heaven his whole purpose for me being there but I was allowed several instances of seeing Him work through me. And for that, and an even stronger faith, I am forever grateful. 

You know there are many times in our lives when God will call you and me to do seemingly unachievable, hopeless and ridiculous things. And as hard as these troubles or difficulties are to endure, it's these trials that teach us if we simply step out and make our way to the water's edge, God will do the impossible. He did it for me and can do it for you-because, in the words of Francis of Assisi, "If God can work through me; he can work through anyone." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that gives us hope when we are facing insurmountable odds. It is awesome to remember that the very same God who is the same yesterday, today and forever, is still making ways and doing the impossible. And that you are still using ordinary people to achieve extraordinary things to show your power and might is even more awesome to think about! My prayer is that you would continue to use me and that others would pray the same. Use us Lord to glorify your name and to inspire others to follow you to the water's edge. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Step out on faith - CO3

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ia-41Hoi7iU

Just traveling through

"Dear friends, I warn you as "temporary residents and foreigners" to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls." 1 Peter 2:11

Between running the marathon and exploring the city by metro and on foot, my son and I spent so much time traveling the streets of Boston this week I joked that we could have filed for temporary residency. Inevitably as much as we enjoyed our time there, we soon found ourselves longing to be back in the Ozarks, back to the place Missouri listed us as permanent residents. But that great longing to go home paled in comparison with the intense desire to claim our true and final permanent residence in Heaven. Until that day comes though, I know that we, like all Christians, are just passing through. Does the certainty of that then mean you and I can just sit back and wait in anticipation for it? Oh no! While you and I are here, alive and traveling through this world, each one of us has a purpose, a job to do.

When it comes to purpose consider this-a temporary resident is most commonly defined as: a person who seeks nonpermanent or short-term entry into a country or place for a specific purpose but has a permanent residence elsewhere. That surely defines you and me then doesn't it? You and I are "temporary residents and foreigners" of this world here for a purpose... to glorify God and to be a witness to others. Since that is our job, we would do well to remember Peter's warning to keep away from worldly desires that challenge or contend against our very souls, those things that might tempt us to stray from our purpose and/or entice us to take up our permanent residence here.

As followers, we can have only one permanent home. Which one have you chosen today? As for me, I will agree with Billy Graham and humbly say, "My home is in heaven. I’m just traveling through this world." Can you say the same?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that tells us that our permanent residence is waiting for us in Heaven. Help us to be so focused on that destination that we might not put too much effort into acquiring things or chasing after foolish possessions or titles this world finds important. Help us to stay focused on the job we are here to do that we might do it well and hear the words good job faithful servant when we arrive at our final stop. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Where I belong - Building 429
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqIvoFWFhds

 

Perspective

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Genesis 50:20

At the infamous Heartbreak Hill, I had had enough, or should I say my legs had screamed surrender. After already having alternated between running and walking twenty miles due to an injury, I had slowed down to only a walk. Oh boy, this was going to be a long and hard last 6.2 miles I thought to myself. Then, from behind, I heard a man say, Perspective. "Excuse me", I said to which he replied, "It's all about perspective. You see, you think you are only walking but if you step it up a bit like so (as he demonstrated) and imagine you are running, your mind will catch on and you will be running. Let me show you." And just like that, my new friend from Hong Kong and I were running! This new perspective got us to the finish line a bit quicker but, more importantly, had me once again counting my blessings.

This was a great reminder that the way you and I think about things may not change our situation but can certainly change the way we handle it. Consider the story of Joseph. He was the favorite son of Jacob but sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. In the midst of his trial, God blessed him (He is so good at that!) and he was made second-in-command over all of Egypt. When he was finally reunited with his brothers he told them, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." You see Joseph not only saved his family from famine but thousands of others as well. From a human standpoint, he had every reason to punish instead of help his brothers but, through his trial, he found a new perspective.

If you look hard enough you will see that God is always turning things around to bless us. What you and I see as a hardship, trouble or obstacle, God sees as a means to make us grow or help others. So, if you're looking at that problem in front of you thinking that it's too big to conquer, remember this in the words of Renee Swope, "Sometimes God wants us to look at our circumstances through a new perspective... His perspective."

Heavenly Father, I thank you so very much for being such a faithful, all-knowing and loving God that we might look at things, through faith, in a different perspective. When there mountains in our way Lord, help us to remember that you are the master at moving them. When there are trials in our way, help us to remember that you are the master of turning them into testimonies. And when it looks like there is no way out of our problem, help us to remember that you were, are and always will be the way. With that in mind, may we seize the day and, in faith, keep running towards that finish line. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Deeper - Meredith Andrews

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHeD01uZlgg

True success

"Do what the LORD your God commands and follow his teachings. Obey everything written in the Law of Moses. Then you will be a success, no matter what you do or where you go." 1 Kings 2:3 CEV

Ahhh... the day after a marathon. It is certainly a day to relax and bask in the glow of an accomplishment, wouldn't you say? Yesterday, the Tuesday following Marathon Monday, aka the Boston Marathon, certainly seemed to be that type of day then. As my son and I walked (well he walked and I limped) the streets of downtown Boston, runners everywhere were wearing their coveted 2016 Boston Marathon jackets, shirts or medals. In this town and on that day, having finished the 26.2 mile race was certainly seen as a huge sign of success. But like everything else you and I may accomplish in this life, our successes will be short-lived and quickly forgotten. Wouldn't it be great if they would last for a lifetime though?

When it comes to life-time success, the Bible tells us that when King David was about to die, he gave his son Soloman this advice, "Do what the LORD your God commands and follow his teachings. Obey everything written in the Law of Moses. Then you will be a success, no matter what you do or where you go." Notice that he didn't tell him to build up his kingdom, work harder or acquire great riches to be a success? David knew that true success wasn't found in worldly gains but only in following the Lord and his commands. 

How about you? How do you define success? By what you can accomplish? In a Michael English song are these words, "Oh, I could stop and count successes like diamonds in my hand but those trophies could not equal to the grace by which I stand." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that reminds us that true success is found only in living a life doing what you command and following your teachings. We thank you for the things you allow us to accomplish by your strength as we remember that those successes are given only by your grace as a way to bring you glory. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

In Christ alone - Michael English

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

Perseverance defined

"Because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved." Matthew 24:12,13

John Bingham, an American marathon runner, once wrote "Marathons are about tenacity as much as talent." Did you realize that another word for tenacity is perseverance? And that is just what I saw at yesterday's 120th Boston Marathon... unwavering perseverance. From a few runners hop skipping the 26.2 miles in air-cast boots, blind runners being led by their guides, wheelchair racers and a few amputees, their efforts on the course only paled in comparison to the training that got them there. No doubt, day after day, they battled physical injury as well as the thoughts that said, "Just quit. It's too hard. You'll never be able to do it."

But that's where our persistence, tenacity and determination come in. The bible tells us that in the end times, "the love of most will grow cold." You see, many people will find it too hard to follow Christ, to do what is right in the face of adversity. To battle the pressures of being like the world day in and day out. But it also gives us the promise that, "the one who perseveres to the end will be saved." That, my friend, is the same staying power that it takes to get to the finish line. In the midst of trials, setbacks and those voices that tell us that we just can't do it, we must persevere. We must push through remembering that our efforts will be rewarded by an eternity spent with Christ.

Maybe you find yourself wavering today in your walk with Christ and ready to just give up? Maybe it's just gotten too hard to do the right thing? Now is not the time to give up! It is most certainly the time to remember that there is a greater reward than you could ever imagine waiting at the finish line. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that serves as a motivational speaker to us. May we read it and train ourselves daily in it that our love for You might not grow cold when difficulties or misfortune come into our lives. Help us to be strong and to persevere in the midst of anything this world can hand us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Survivors - Matthew West
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wL0lY5Qp2dM

A brand new heart

"And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh." Ezekial 36:26

On April 9, Arnold Smyth ran the Rock the Parkway 5k in Kansas City. No big deal right? Would you think differently if I told you that he ran it with a brand new heart? You see, in 2014, Smyth learned he had a failing heart and would die without a transplant. Thankfully last June, a donor heart was found and the transplant operation was successful. Afterwards, his doctors said he worked "twice as hard as everybody else" in rehab-all in an attempt to get back to running. This man, who had run half-marathons, was determined to get back out on the road. What a celebration it was then when transplant #663 finished his first race back accompanied by some members of his transplant team. 

Wow! A new heart would certainly give a person a fresh start wouldn't it? Ezekial 36:26 would agree when it promises, "And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh." Like Smyth, many of us have a failing heart, hardened by stubbornness and a refusal to follow God.  He wants to change that today though. He wants to take our sin-hardened heart and replace it with a Christ-softened one, a heart that is focused on Him.

Isn't it awesome to think that a heart that finds it impossible to repent and love God could actually be transplanted with a heart that desires to love and please Him? If your heart is failing today and in need of a transplant, won't you ask God, the Great Physician, to perform some sanctifying surgery? In a mere moment, He can transform that heart of stone into a heart of flesh and you can be off and running again.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your sanctifying work in our lives. Thank you for being the great Physician that can take a heart of stone and replace it with a heart of flesh in an instant. If there's anyone in need of a heart transplant today, I pray that they would make the decision today to allow you to transform and restore them. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Change my heart - Hillsong
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwudqCO7mSQ

http://fox4kc.com/2016/04/12/heart-transplant-recipient-on-the-run-again-following-surgery/

The Potter's hands

"Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." Isaiah 64:8

Have you ever wondered how pottery is formed? You know on one of those long runs when your mind thinks about a million different things? Well I have and, upon looking for the answer, discovered that it can be a very intense and sometimes lengthy process. It begins when the potter prepares the clay by kneading and wedging it, throwing it down time and again only to pick it back up and reform it. The potter then, using tools specific for the job, presses, squeezes and pulls gently upward and outward, molding and fashioning the clay into a useful object. That clay is then heated to a high temperature which strengthens and hardens it, permanently setting its shape. It is only then that it is ready for use. Without the potter though, the clay is nothing but fine-grained rock or soil.

Like the clay, you and I are nothing without the Potter. And until we are kneaded, wedged, molded and put through the fire serve no purpose and are of no use. And while trials, sorrows and disappointments are never any fun, they serve to 'turn up the heat' and turn our attention to our Creator. Isaiah 64:8 says, "Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." Since He has a specific purpose for each of us, the tools and the techniques He uses to individually form us will be as unique as we are. But you can be certain, because the Potter knows the clay, the right tools will always be used. It's then, when the Potter has touched us with His hands, that you and I will be transformed and made into something useful, beautiful and valuable.

So if you feel yourself in the fire today or being pulled in many directions, have faith my friend. It could be that the Potter is molding and forming you into something better than you could ever have imagined, something perfect for the purpose that God has planned for you.

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would form us into a vessel that can be used to do your will. Although we may not understand the process, help us to trust the Potter. Help us to trust that, although it may take some time, that one day we will be a piece of pottery perfect for the use God intended it for. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

In the Potter's Hands

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_vf7D_n-4o

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pottery

Identity???

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9

The simple definition of identity given by Merriam Webster is: who someone is, the name of a person or the qualities, beliefs, etc. that make a person different from others. But what happens when one part of that definition is changed? When a quality is removed? After being told by the podiatrist yesterday that I couldn't resume running for three weeks, that question made me think. I was a runner right? Now what? One study of the scriptures reveals that I am so much more than what I do, what I achieve or how I look though. I am, as 1 Peter 2:9 tells me, "God's special possession" and that part of my identity can never be changed. 

Sadly people so often define their identity by their accomplishments, jobs, successes, wealth, their children or a title. And when that status changes, they can be left wondering who they really are. I know I did for several long (and downcast) hours until He reminded me that my identity is not in what I do, it's in what He has done for me. My identity is not in being a runner but in Christ and my value comes from being "God's special possession." That is who I am and that is who you are!

My worth is not in skill or name

In win or lose, in pride or shame
But in the blood of Christ that flowed
At the cross

You see our true identity is being God's "chosen people", chosen that you and I "may declare the praises of him who called" us "out of darkness into his wonderful light." So let's make the decision today to be nothing but what God says we are... and he calls us chosen, loved and His.

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would call us your special possession. Thank you that our identity can be found in you alone and that our worth is determined only by the value you have placed on us. Help us to not get caught up in defining ourselves or others by anything we do or accomplish but only by the priceless value of the blood shed at Calvary. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

My worth - Keith and Krystyn Getty

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

By faith

"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1

In every race two things are certain- there will be a definite start line and a definite finish line. What is uncertain, though, is what will happen in between those two lines. If you think about it then, lining up at the start takes faith. By faith we trust that the course is marked and safe. And by faith we believe the course to be stocked with all the provisions we will need along the way. The confidence of that is what compels us to begin.  But why do we do continue even when it gets hard? For what awaits us at the finish line of course, the prize that we are assured of and know for certain is there even though we can't see it.

You know life is like a race too in that we know for certain that there is a definite starting point and a definite finishing point. What we don't known for certain is what will happen between the two points. That thought can be very frightening for some. But it doesn't have to be if we have faith. Scripture defines faith like this, "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.", while Webster's Dictionary defines it as "an unquestioning belief that does not require proof or evidence." Faith is trusting in what God has promised, and his will, while fully expecting those promises to be fulfilled no matter what we may see or not see happening in our lives.

The bible tells us that God kept his promise to Abraham who by faith offered his only son as a sacrifice. He kept his promise to Noah who by faith built an ark and saved his family. And he will keep his promises to us too! As we travel from point to point and from start to finish, by faith we can be assured that he will give us comfort in our trials and rest from our burdens. Just as he promised, he will supply all our needs and give us the strength to get through each day. And best of all, he has promised eternal life to all those who believe. Now doesn't that make you want to race to the finish line?

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the God who never changes and who always keeps his promises. Help us to have faith like Abraham and Noah to believe what you say even when we can't see the ending. Help us to trust you in every situation looking to the Word to strengthen our faith. By faith, may we run with confidence and assurance that we will indeed see your face when we cross that finish line. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

By faith - Shekinah Glory

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W__dVFKXYWE&nohtml5=False

Isn't it ironic?

"When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mark 2:16.17

I was overwhelmingly blessed to, once again, work the TEAM 413 booth at the St. Louis Marathon Expo last weekend. Talking about and sharing the Lord with runners and their families is most certainly my favorite way to spend any 48 hour period. It was a pleasure to welcome many new people to the ministry as well as catch up with some old friends, many of whom I had run this race with before. So when asked by a long time member whether or not I would be joining him at the start line Sunday, I sadly revealed that I would be sitting this one out due to injury. As he emphatically shook his head, he pointed out the irony in being at a run but not being able to participate.

Did you know that the bible gives us an even greater example of irony when it tells us that the Pharisees were disgruntled and appalled that Jesus would eat a meal "with the sinners and tax collectors"?  But I love the way he responded! Jesus replied to their indignation by saying, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." You see Jesus gladly associated with sinners because he loved them and he knew that they, more than anyone, needed to hear what he had to say. He touched the leper, he held the hand of the poor and he extended his arm to the prostitute. Jesus indeed came to save people like you and me.

And just like Jesus, you and I should be "eating with the sinners" and the lost too. We should be spending time with those needing to hear the words of Jesus. Whether poor, rich, bad, good, dirty or polished, we must seek out those people in need of Christ. I wonder if we are doing that today though? Don't you think it would be exceptionally ironic to call ourselves Christians without ever showing the love of Christ? I certainly do.

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the perfect example to follow to love others the way we should. Help us to share the message with everyone regardless of their social standing or their past. Lord please help us to remind ourselves that we too were lost and in need of salvation as we reach out to every person you put in our path. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Jesus friend of sinners - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipwEtvWL_3c

Not my fault

"And now I know that none of you to whom I have preached the Kingdom will ever see me again. I declare today that I have been faithful. If anyone suffers eternal death, it’s not my fault, for I didn’t shrink from declaring all that God wants you to know." Acts 20:25-27

After completing his umpteenth half marathon last weekend, my good friend said to me, "You know it's all your fault that I started running. I was fine until you came along." After I finished laughing I facetiously replied, "You're very welcome." All joking aside though, this goes to show that we can have a great impact on the people around us. By our actions and words you and I have the power to get others to try or do things they normally wouldn't. And while I am certainly grateful that I can motivate people to achieve running goals, it would be worth nothing if I hadn't inspired them to follow Jesus Christ.

Scripture tells us that, as Paul was preparing to leave for Jerusalem (where he was warned by the Holy Spirit that prison and hardships awaited him), he said, "I declare today that I have been faithful. If anyone suffers eternal death, it's not my fault, for I didn't shrink from declaring all that God wants you to know." Paul was making it very clear that if there was anyone that had not accepted Christ it was most certainly not his fault. Because he had never shied away from preaching the Gospel no matter the consequences, he could boldly and confidently make that statement knowing that he had been steadfast, devoted and obedient to the calling of declaring the Good News. 

Did you know that God has called each and every one of us to do that very same thing? As believers, you and I have the opportunity and obligation to win others to Christ every day. May we do that so boldly that we, like Paul, can declare "I have been faithful... If anyone suffers eternal death, it's not my fault."

Heavenly Father, I thank you for sending your son, Jesus Christ, to give us the gift of eternal life. May we be so grateful for that gift every day that we would want to share it with every single person you put in our path. May we not shrink from declaring all the things you would like others to know. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Somebody tell them - City Harbor

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjRTevhYifM&list=RDNjRTevhYifM

No favorites

"Masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Don’t threaten them; remember, you both have the same Master in heaven, and he has no favorites." Ephesians 6:9

If you're like me you probably have a favorite running shirt. You know, the that one that fits so well you grab for it time and again (when it's not in the laundry for the third time this week) dreading the day it wears out completely. As runners we have lots of favorite things don't we? A favorite water bottle, a favorite brand of shoe, a favorite race and maybe even a favorite running song. But the Bible tells us that, when it comes to people, God doesn't have any favorites and neither should we.

In Paul's letter to Philemon he wrote, "Masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Don't threaten them; remember, you both have the same Master in heaven, and he has no favorites." He was reminding Philemon that, although he was the master of his slave, Onesimus, they were equal because they were brothers in Christ. It served as a message then and should serve as a message now that we should not "play favorites" by treating people differently based on their level in earthly society. Paul was saying that whether a person was rich or poor, slave or free didn't matter. What mattered was that we had "the same Master"and were no more important than anyone else.

I wonder how many of us can say that we treat people that way though? Equally? As Christians, the best way to share the message is to be the message. And the message is this... Jesus loves you and He loves me, not for anything we did or any status we acquired but because we are his children. If you or I had been the only person on the face of this earth, he would still have taken our place on that cross. And if you and I are that important to him, we should be that important to one another.

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us not based on what we have accomplished or acquired in this life but because we are your children. Help us to love others without prejudice or pretense that we might be the Message to them and that we might, by that love shown, prompt them to accept you as Lord of their life. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

How He loves us - David Crowder

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzfPHnoT0-0

buzzer beater

"Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:42,43

Yesterday's Washington Post Headlines read, "Kris Jenkins’s shot for Villanova takes its place among all-time buzzer-beaters" In basketball, a buzzer-beater is a shot taken before the game clock of a quarter expires but does not go in until after the clock expires and the buzzer sounds. In other words, it is the last possible moment that a shot can be counted. The article that followed read, "This will be remembered for quite some time. Villanova didn’t just stun favored North Carolina for the NCAA title Monday, the Wildcats did it on a last-second shot.

The bible tells us of another last-second shot when it relays the story of the penitent thief, that sinner on the cross next to Jesus who, before nearing his final breath, repented and said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom." And Jesus replied, "I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise." While it is indeed true that a person can be forgiven of their sins at the last possible moment, why would anyone chance making the decision to follow Him not knowing how much time is left on the clock?

Maybe today you're planning on living your life as you please, doing what feels good, and then accepting Jesus when the end is near? While you're pondering that thought though, might I remind you that no one is guaranteed tomorrow-not me and not you. And when your time runs out there will be no more shots left to beat the buzzer. Won't you choose to follow Christ today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the God of second chances. Thank you for loving us so much that you would allow us to enter Heaven at the lost possible moment. If there is anyone putting off their decision today, my fervent hope is that they would pray this prayer...  Lord, I confess that I am a sinner in need of grace. I believe that your son, Jesus, was crucified for the forgiveness of my sins and that he rose again on the third day. I accept you as my Lord and Savior at this very moment and pray that you would dwell in my heart. It's in your precious name I pray this. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Remember me - Kutless

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

"thoroughly tested"

"Your promises have been thoroughly tested; that is why I love them so much." Psalm 119:140

Every month Runners World Magazine tests the newest shoes on the market and reports their findings. Each pair is worn for a month by over 400 runners evaluating features like fit and comfort. Those same models also undergo a barrage of tests in the RW Shoe Lab where a robot tests them and reports on things like cushioning, flexibility and height and weight. It's only then, after the lab-test results are in, the wear-testers have submitted their evaluations and the experts have pored over the data for each shoe, that they will appear in the shoe guide as having "been thoroughly tested". Sure makes it easier to find a shoe that you will love doesn't it?

In Psalm 119:140, David describes his love for things tried and true when he writes, "Your promises have been thoroughly tested; that is why I love them so much." Like you and me, David was a sinner made right by God's forgiveness, one of the many promises He made and kept. And so God's word was what King David clung to in the darkest of times and in the most joyful of them having learned that God's promises would never change and were always trustworthy. Amidst the many trials, battles and betrayals he had faced, God delivered on his promises every single time. How could he not love them then? Those promises of deliverance, forgiveness, protection, victory and comfort were what gave him the strength and courage to get through each day!

We too should love God's Word and his promises of salvation, restoration and refuge in the storm. Think it's too good to be true? Like David did then, test them... and then test them some more. And then when you have thoroughly tested God's promises and found them to be true (and you will), may you be able to declare your love for them as passionately as the Psalmist does. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that time and again proves to be true. It has been "thoroughly tested" throughout the ages and not one promise has ever proved to be wrong. Thank you that, in the midst of this crazy world with its empty promises and lies, that we can know with certainty that your promises are true and that we love it as much as the Psalmist did. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Promises - 7th Time Down

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u_f3wIS6v8

http://www.runnersworld.com/running-shoes/how-we-test-shoes

"great opportunities"

"Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free." Ephesians 6:7,8

This past Saturday I was blessed to serve alongside some fellow members at our TEAM 413 yard sale. Originally scheduled (but unable due to injury) to run a half marathon that day, I was struck at how different these two works of service were-one would be rewarded by a medal and the cheers of onlookers while the other would simply be celebrated amidst our small group. Despite their dissimilarities though, my friends and I discussed how both jobs were equally important and were to be done with the same passion and eagerness. As I pondered that thought all day, I sadly realized that a large number of Christians will choose only the "great opportunities" to serve... doing only those big jobs that come with some form of acknowledgement or a bit of human praise.

Would you agree with me, though, that if we are to be faithful servants of Christ that we should be willing to serve however and wherever God has called us? And when approaching that service, Ephesians 6:7 says that you and I are to, "Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the LORD rather than for people." If you and I are waiting for those "great opportunities" to serve, we most assuredly will be missing all the equally important little ways to serve. These acts may come with no earthly recompense but God promises us something much better, "Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do."

So if you're waiting for just the right time or opportunity to serve, today is that time! Wherever you are and however God has called you, in big ways and in little ways, let us serve. Because as Rick Warren writes,  "Great opportunities may come once in a lifetime, but small opportunities surround us every day."

Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us to serve you each day. Help us to be willing to serve in whatever way you have called us and to do it with eagerness and devotion whether we are running a race, teaching a Sunday school class or working behind the scenes, may we remember that when we are serving others,  we are working for You. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Audience of One - Big Daddy Weave

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFxVfAZj5Q0