The role model

"In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching." Titus 2:6, 7

In an article published Monday titled, "Even The Teens Are Getting Into Cheating At Races These Days," it was reported that a disturbing trend is beginning to emerge, high school runners cheating in cross country and track. It's no wonder that this movement comes after so many adult runners, both professional and recreational, have been caught doing the very same thing. Wouldn't you agree that now, more than ever, this world needs better role models?

And when it comes to being a role model, the Bible tells us that the job starts with you and me. We are to be those models or examples by the way we live our lives, letting everything we do reflect the sincerity of what we believe. You see we can better encourage young men and women to live wisely not only by our words but by our actions. 

Thomas McKinnon Wood once wrote, "Be a wonderful role model because you will be the window through which many children will see their future." So whether we are a famous athlete or not, remember that there is always someone watching us, someone looking for guidance. And for that, shouldn't we do our best to imitate Jesus, the greatest role model ever, that they might do the same?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that gives us so many great role models. May we strive to grow closer to you each day that we might live lives worthy of imitating and be the people our younger generation can look up to for guidance. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Follow me there - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iq6eHg6X5pw

http://www.flotrack.org/article/48809-even-the-teens-are-getting-into-cheating-at-races-these-days

Dear younger me

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:13, 14

In anticipation of the NCAA Cross Country Championships on November 19, professional runner and three-time NCAA champion Kara Goucher wrote a letter to her much younger 22-year-old self that included input this next generation of runners would most certainly benefit from. The advice was written to herself on the eve of the 2000 NCAA Cross Country Championships that she was set to run in and included this, "As the future you, I want to tell you to slow down. Try to really take it all in. Trust your training, trust your teammates, and most importantly trust yourself. You are ready for a great race. You are ready to run hard but more importantly, to have fun executing that race. Enjoy every last second."

There's no doubt that time can help us see things in a different way right? And while we can't change the past by the things we have learned, there is something we all can do. We can share our knowledge to help the next generation as Kara did. And the advice I now share and the thing I wish I could have told my younger me? No matter how the world defines you, you are worthy. You are worthy because God personally made you. As a matter of fact, He chose to make you! And He created you to do wonderful things regardless of what anyone else says or thinks. Your worth is in who you are to Him and not the image you see in the mirror and He thinks you're pretty amazing.

And you know what? God made each and every one of us in the same special way. Which means, no matter how you see yourself today, God, the Creator, sees you as a wonderful one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Isn't it time you started seeing yourself that way too?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that tells us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Help us to see ourselves as you see us rather than how the world defines what is beautiful. We praise you for making us so wonderfully and for sealing us as your workmanship. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Dear younger me - Mercy Me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-l70C3ePyIQ

http://running.competitor.com/2016/11/news/kara-gouchers-amazing-advice-younger-self_159380

Defying the odds

"When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you." Deuteronomy 20:1

Three weeks after running his first marathon, Don Wright was diagnosed with cancer and given only three to five years to live. But now, 13 years after his doctor's predictions, Don is still defying the odds. On November 20th, Wright completed his 100th marathon in Philadelphia. And while his journey has certainly not been without setbacks including weekly chemotherapy treatments and immunotherapy infusions, Don says, "I’ll keep running as long as my legs will hold me up, whether it’s marathons, 5Ks, or whatever."

You know when we talk about defying odds, the Israelites were faced with overwhelming opposition on many occasions. And although God, defying all odds, saved them time and time again, they still had a tendency to worry. Don't we all? Which is why God reminded them, "When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt will be with you." This was a reminder that the same God who rescued them each time they were outnumbered or helpless was the same God that would always be with them.

And that promise is true for us too. At times when we feel outnumbered or helpless, this great God who brought the Israelites out of Egypt, is the very same awe-inspiring God who can defy any and all odds to rescue you and me. In fact, He is the King of overcoming even the most difficult of odds. With that reminder, won't you let go of whatever it is you're scared of and trust Him today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the all-mighty and all-powerful God that can overcome even the bleakest of odds. In fact, your Word tells us so. From the parting of the Red Seas to raising Jesus from the dead, you are the King of making ways where there seems to be no way. Calm our hearts and spirits today Lord and help us to look up for help when we are tempted to look around at our circumstances. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

King of the world - Natalie Grant

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

Friday's gift

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Wow, I hadn't even finished celebrating Thanksgiving yesterday before receiving ads and invitations to take advantage of Black Friday sales on everything from Runner's World Subscriptions and Nike Thermo Tights to Garmin watches and Proform Treadmills. With all the retailers' promises of free shipping and discounted prices, these savings seem too good to pass up don't they? And if you think those offers are great, what if I told you about another offer that makes them pale in comparison? The absolute best offer ever extended on a Friday?

You see on a Good Friday almost 2,000 years ago, our Savior, Jesus Christ, died on a cross so that He could offer you and me the greatest deal of all time.... eternal life. Why? Because He loves us. The Bible tells us so when it says that, "God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son..." And if that wasn't amazing enough, it gets even better! You don't have to wait for a sale or a special day to receive this life-saving savings, eternal life is offered to "whoever believes in him."

And it's as simple as that my friend-accept and trust in Him and be saved. It's a decision that will most assuredly change the rest of your life as Billy Graham so wisely knew when he said, "I have never known anyone to accept Christ’s redemption and later regret it.”

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you would send your Son to die for us that we might spend eternity with You. If there is anyone reading this today that has not accepted you as their Lord and Savior, I pray today they pray these words, "Lord, I admit that I am a sinner. I believe that you died on the cross to save me from my sins and I accept you as Lord of my life. Forgive me and help me start new knowing that I can look forward to eternal life with You". It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Glorious day - Casting Crowns

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

The Thanksgiving secret

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." Philippians 4:12

As you prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving today, what are you most thankful for? This was the question I pondered on my early morning run. And while the obvious things like family, friends and freedom popped into my head-second to Salvation, I am most grateful for this... I have finally learned the secret of contentment. And if contentment is defined as the state of being happy and satisfied with one's possessions, status or situation, I would say that is definitely something to be thankful for. Wouldn't you? 

Paul thought so too when he wrote the words, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty." You see, he could say this because Paul had experienced abundant wealth, extreme poverty and everything in between. He could say that he had, "learned the secret of being content in any and every situation" because his focus was not on these temporal things but on Christ and knowing and obeying Him. These cheerful words, written while Paul was in prison, were a reminder to us that joy can be found in all things and all situations because God is always with us... in all things and all situations. 

You see, happiness is dependent upon what is happening around us but contentment is dependent on what is happening within us. And if we are focused on Christ, there is nothing happening around us that can steal our joy. Now isn't that something to be thankful for today? I sure think so. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that tells us that true joy and contentment can be found in any situation we may find ourselves in. Help us to remember that we will never be satisfied with the things this world says will make us happy like possessions or position but that all we ever need is found in You. And for knowing that secret, may we truly be grateful today no matter if we are living in plenty or in want. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Never been a moment - Micah Tylor

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eisFAST8OM

Never done alone

"When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up--one on one side, one on the other--so that his hands remained steady till sunset." Exodus 17:12

Since Sir Edmund Hilary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay first conquered Mount Everest in 1953, more than 4,000 people have successfully scaled the summit. That number continues to rise as, it is estimated, that around 800 people attempt this climb every year. And while each person to reach the top will most certainly be applauded for their conquest, there is always a person or persons that helped them achieve their success that will almost always go unnoticed. You see, no one reaches the top alone, they always have a team behind them. 

In Exodus 17, the Bible tells us of a battle between the Israelites and the Amalekites. As Joshua was leading the battle, Moses stood on top of the hill with his hands held high. As long as Moses help up his hands, the Israelites were winning but whenever he lowered them, the Amalekites were winning. So when his hands grew tired, Aaron and Hur gave him a seat and then "held his hands up.. so that his hands remained steady till sunset" when Joshua declared victory over the enemy. Not much more was ever said about Hur but one thing is certain, he played a vital part in the outcome. Wouldn't you agree?

Like Hur, there are many people that are willing to help others with no expectation of receiving any consideration or appreciation. These are the unsung heroes that help others to reach their personal goals or, like with Moses, perform the job God has called them to. These are the people who perform a function in the Body of Christ that is utterly essential but rarely recognized. And for that, thank you.

Heavenly Father, thank you for each and every person in the Body of Christ that serves. Help us to realize that each function and person is equally valuable whether their actions are known or go left unnoticed. Help us all to be conscious of what other people do and to thank them as often as we can. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

He knows my name - Francesca Battistelli

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

Polluted perspective

"To the pure everything is pure; but to the polluted and unbelieving nothing is pure, but on the contrary their very minds and consciences are polluted." Titus 1:15 

It was reported that more than 12,000 people took part in a half marathon in New Delhi, India Saturday amidst record high air pollution levels that left a grey haze over the city and pollution so thick it was said it could be tasted and smelled. The air was so dirty, in fact, that runners were strongly urged to wear gas masks and two High Court judges advised the government to warn people of the dangers of running the 13.1 mile race saying, "You should warn everyone that pollution levels are high. Anyone with respiratory or cardiac problems may collapse because of exhaustion. You should not be running in this (race)."

When it comes to pollution, the Bible also tells us that it can be dangerous, affecting the way we see things. You see those people who are "pure" and unpolluted, with their eyes fixed on Christ, see the good all around them even in the midst of evil. But for the unbeliever or those people who have allowed their minds to become filled and contaminated by the thoughts and things of this world, evil is seen in everything. They can't see past the grey haze that blocks their view of the good things right in front of them. In other words, our souls become the filters by which you and I view the world-a polluted filter leads to a polluted perspective. 

I've heard it said that we do not see things as they are, we see things as we are. So if you don't like the way in which you are viewing your world today, maybe it's time to clean the filter through which you are looking? And that, my friend, begins with filling your heart and mind with Jesus. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for showing us how we can see the good in everything by seeing it through your eyes. Help us to be so close to you that our filters are pure and unpolluted. And, Lord, if there is anyone reading this that needs to make a change today, I pray today is the day they decide to empty all the thoughts and desires that are polluting their souls and turn to you for cleansing. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Through your eyes - Britt Nicole

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJzaQP1GmEc

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3954236/Running-puff-Competitors-Delhi-half-marathon-forced-wear-gas-masks-pollution-levels-hit-record-high.html

By faith

"These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect." Hebrews 11:39, 40

I was blessed to run the 26.2 miles of 'gently rolling' hills from Salem to Rolla, MO Saturday morning to complete the Honoring the Heroes Marathon. This first-year event (which includes a 5k and half marathon) was the inspiration of 79-year-old Bob Gravley, an Air Force veteran, as a means to honor those men and women who have served or are currently serving. As I spoke to and congratulated Bob after he, himself, crossed the finish line (walked it in 6 and a half hours!), he sadly told me that his only regret about the race was that he hadn't done it sooner (his best friend had died before he could see it).

You know when it comes to heroes, Hebrews 11, sometimes referred to as faith's hall of fame, honors those men and women who by "their faith" completed the purpose to which God called them to-those heroes who followed the Lord with no expectation of being recognized or receiving "what had been promised". Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses and Rahab were among those 'heroes of the faith' listed that endured hardship, trials and persecution and yet persevered to finish the race in spite of their adversities. Their only motivation? To finish the individual and unique task God had assigned each of them.

That friend of Bob's may have passed on before seeing this running tribute but he, no doubt, helped to inspire the race that now honors a new generation of heroes. And as any true hero will tell you, being obedient to the cause has nothing to do with receiving any honor this side of Heaven because, as Joseph Campbell writes, "A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself." 

Heavenly Father, thank you for those heroes, past and present, who lived out their faith to fulfill the calling you gave them. Help us to not only honor them but to look to them as examples of how to live a life of courage and determination in the midst of trials and struggles as we fulfill the individual and unique calling you have given each and every one of us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Walk by faith - Jeremy Camp

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

This hero is a 20 year veteran who walked the half marathon in full gear and then went back to assist the last finisher . 

This hero of perseverance is a young lady with Multiple Sclerosis who, with the help of friends, walked the half marathon and then ran the last bit by herself for a teary-eyed finish for all those watching. I saw her on the course as she made her way and know that this was not an easy task for her. Wow. 

This active duty hero walked the marathon in just under 8 hours and showed his determination to finish. Here he is shaking the hands of his new friends, also active duty soldiers, who went back to help him. 

Upon his finish, this hero, Bob Gravley,  was grateful to see that his dream, with the help of many volunteers, had  become reality.  What a day it was!!

Blindsided?

"The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time." Psalm 34:19

Imagine this... you're running along minding your own business when, out of nowhere, you're struck by a sprinting deer. That's too crazy to be true right? But that's exactly what happened to Justin DeLuzio, a senior at Gwynedd Mercy University, while running in a cross-country meet last Saturday. No sooner had someone yelled, "Watch out for the deer!" than he was struck in the stomach by one of the stampeding hoofed animals and fell to the ground. Thankfully though, with the help of a teammate, Deluzio was able to get back up and finish the race bruised, but otherwise fine. 

Wow. You know, much like the runner in this competition, you and I can also be struck by something we never saw coming (or could have imagined) like a car accident, a cancer diagnosis, a layoff or even the death of a loved one. And while we have little or no control over any of these things that can serve to leave us feeling 'blindsided', we do have control over whether we will get back up and get back in the race. Thankfully, though, the psalmist reminds us that no matter what serves to 'blindside' us, "the Lord comes to the rescue each time." 

So you see, no matter what knocks you down or how hard or how many times you fall, there is always Someone there to help you to your feet. And while we might be bruised and broken, the Lord himself will give us the strength we need to finish the race. And that my friend, as crazy as it may seem, is most definitely true. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your promise to rescue us each and every time we are blindsided by trouble or trials. Help us to look to you for help to rise when don't have the strength to do it on our own. Help us, Lord, to finish the race you have set before us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Higher - Unspoken

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-H9SXqzs0oI

http://www.ncaa.com/news/cross-country-men/article/2016-11-17/deer-hits-cross-country-runner-ncaa-regional-race

Off limits

"Whoever is caught with the devoted things shall be destroyed by fire, along with all that belongs to him. He has violated the covenant of the Lord and has done an outrageous thing in Israel!’...When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a bar of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them...” Joshua 7:15, 21

Having already run down every road in my little town and nearly every one in the surrounding areas too, I am always longing for new places to explore. So you can imagine my excitement when I came across an open gate on yesterday morning's run. This wasn't just any gate though. You see, this gate had always marked the turnaround point of one of my routes because of its' closed and padlocked entrance. But today was different-it was almost as if it was an open invitation to continue down the path that I knew was clearly off-limits. Reminding myself that trespassing was wrong, I turned around and was soon grateful for not succumbing to my desire. Besides, I thought, who knows where that path may have lead?

And when we talk about the consequences of following paths or desires that are 'off-limits', Joshua 7 tells us the story of Achan, an Israelite of the tribe of Judah, who had disobeyed God's commands and taken some of the "devoted things" for himself. When confronted, Achan's only answer was, "When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a bar of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them." In other words, Achan took the forbidden path-he succumbed to his desire rather than running the other way. 

While Achan was immediately stoned for his disobedience, you and I most likely won't be punished that quickly or severely for our transgressions. But you can be sure that there are always consequences for them. So if you're looking at an 'off limits' but open gate right now and are tempted to enter... stop. Turn around and run the other direction. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the examples of what can happen when we give in to sin. Help us to avoid wanting the things we don't have and to be satisfied with the things you have blessed us with instead. Help us to turn away from the invitation to enter into sin and to run quickly in the other direction. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Matt Maher - Turn around

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRYJ5TKEy1w

Out of place

"John's clothes were made of camel's hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey." Matthew 3:4

What a sight my friend and I must have been as we exited the wooded trail and came out on the sidewalk lining the busy Kansas City roadway. While participating in a trail run that required us to navigate the way by map, we had gotten lost and now had to run by the highway teeming with cars to get back where we needed to be. By the stares we were getting, we knew we were 'out of place'. Decked out in running apparel complete with racing bibs and hydration devices, it was quite apparent that we did not belong here... we undoubtedly did not fit in.

When it comes to being different from the crowd, the Bible describes John the Baptist as being 'out of place' too. With his clothes made of camel's hair, a leather belt around his waist and a diet of locusts and wild honey, you can be sure that he got many stares. This distinction, though, is exactly what drew people to him. You see, not only did his clothes set him apart, his faith did too. He came boldly preaching a message of repentance and preparation for the coming Messiah concerned only with the job God had called him to. And for this John most certainly did not fit in.

You know, as Christians, you and I should be so intent on fulfilling our purpose and boldly sharing the message that we do not fit in either. In fact, by our actions and attitudes, we should be so different from the world that there is no question that you and I are 'out of place'. And after all, isn't that the best place to be?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the examples of those faithful Christians that have gone before us that we can emulate. Help us to be as bold and set apart as John the Baptist that we might bring others to you as he did. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Jesus Freak - DC Talk 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQBIS2zWEz8

right here, right now

"Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." James 4:14

Yesterday's headlines from WSVN news in Fort Lauderdale Florida reported that a runner had been struck and killed by an SUV while participating in the Michelob Ultra Half Marathon on Sunday morning. Witnesses said the impact was so great that it sent the man flying into the air leaving one running shoe on the pavement. Surely this is not how this man expected the day to end right? When he left home, excited and nervous about the race, he most likely gave no thought to the idea that it might be his last time walking out the door. Had he known how things would turn out, perhaps he would have done things differently?

Truthfully though, we would probably all live our lives differently if we knew it could be our last day wouldn't we? Well the truth is, right here and right now could very well be the last moments we have. James 4:14 reminds us of that when it says you and I, "do not even know what will happen tomorrow". Wouldn't it be wise then to live 'differently' starting today? To serve and love others so that, no matter what happens, we will have lived a life of purpose?

With that in mind I say we all make today matter. Tell those people you love that you love them. Tell someone about Jesus. Let go of those grudges and let forgiveness rule in your heart. Stop for a moment to enjoy the sunset. Praise Him for each footstep you count on your morning run. But mostly, right here and right now live with purpose-confident as you lay your head down to rest that, should tomorrow never come, today you made a difference.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you give us each and everyday. We know we take so many of them for granted Lord. Starting right here and right now,  may we strive to love others, serve others and to make a difference in someone's life each and every day. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Love like Jesus - Rhett Walker Band
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciWHZUKXXho

Always choose joy

"Always be joyful." 1 Thessalonians 5:16

Joined by my dear friend, Shannon,  I was excited to show up to the start line of a reportedly difficult 50k trail run early yesterday morning. And difficult it was-from the beginning to the end, nothing went the way it was supposed to. The course wasn't marked well and my friend and I couldn't make heads or tails of the map we had been given. The trail proved to be quite technical as well and we got tripped-up and lost more times than we could count. And yet it was a day filled with rejoicing, happiness and awe at the blessings all around us. Amidst the difficult circumstances and the prospect of another DNF (did not finish), Shannon and I could not have been any happier as we laughed and slowly traversed the rocky and hilly terrain before us. You see, finding reasons to be joyous wasn't dependent on whether our race or day went as planned, it was dependent on how we chose to view the things that happened throughout the course of it.

Having endured many trials, difficulties and obstacles in his life, Paul knew the importance and power of choosing to find joy in every situation too. In fact, in his letter to the church at Thessalonica where believers were being persecuted, Paul wrote, "Always be joyful." I love that world always. It means at all times and on all occasions, good and bad. How is that possible you might wonder? It's as simple as reminding ourselves that, while crazy, unexpected and unwelcome things will happen to us each day that are out of our control, we always have control over the way we react to these things. In other words, you and I always have a choice.

Henri J. Nouwen wisely said it this way, "Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” So what will you choose?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your blessings, great and small, that you give each of us every day. Most of all, thank you for your presence in our lives and your promise to always be with us no matter what we are facing. And for that, Lord, help us to choose to always be joyful so that others might be drawn to us that we might share the source of that joy. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Joy - Johnny Diaz

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pn_ZSR6QWYM

We got lost before we even got started as our GPS took us the wrong way. The race director was kind enough to allow us to start late. So off we went, just the two of us, on a chilly November morning. 

This was the only "aid station" we were able to find. The pickings were thin but the few cookies we found got us through 6 hours and 21 miles of navigating the hills and rocky terrain. Oh how we thanked God for these simple blessings in the form of simple carbs!!

Enjoying one of the few open pastures and easy running spots, we were thrilled to take a moment to stop and watch the wild buffalo.

Our only finish line photo with a new friend we met at the end. No one this day made it more than 21 miles we later found out,  but we laughed and agreed that it was an experience that we would never forget. Oh praise God for adventures like this!!

soak up the Son

"Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." Mark 6:31

In a recent study published by Runner's World Magazine, it was once again proven that everyone, especially runners, needs vitamin D. The report also concluded that this key nutrient that is linked to bone, muscle and heart health also has the potential to optimize athletic performance by boosting endurance and enhancing muscle recovery. That's great news isn't it? Even better news is that, if you're like most Americans and falling short in your vitamin D intake, the solution is to sunbathe. Yes, you heard that right-spending five to 20 minutes in the sun two or three times a week can be just the answer you need. And by making this a habit, you can avoid this deficiency all-together that, experts say, can lead to depression, muscle weakness and bone disorders. 

You know, a vitamin D deficiency is not the only thing that can lead to depression and weakness. Lack of time spent with Jesus can do the very same thing. And, in a world that's sometimes so fast paced that you and I may find it hard to breathe much less study the Word, we can quickly get run down spiritually. Jesus knew this well as he watched his disciples become so busy that they didn't even have time to fulfill their basic needs. Which is why, knowing what was important, He extended this invitation, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." In other words, Jesus was telling them (and us) to stop, be still and bask in the light to replenish the one thing they needed most... Him. 

Without a doubt there is absolutely nothing more important in this world than taking the time to rest in the Father's presence. Dr. Charles Stanley says it like this, "We can be tired, weary and emotionally distraught, but after spending time alone with God, we find that He injects into our bodies energy, power and strength.” 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that, when we don't spend time at your feet, we can quickly become depressed, weak, despondent and lonely. Help us to realize the importance of meeting with you daily and to put that above anything else on our to-do list. May you be the first thing we seek when we rise and the last thing we think about when we lay down to rest. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Johnny Diaz - Breathe

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

http://www.runnersworld.com/fridge-wisdom/the-nutrient-every-runner-needs-and-almost-no-one-gets?utm_source=runnersworld.com&utm_medium=Outbrain&utm_content=channelHPrightrail

Read it

"But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night." Psalm 1:2

It was reported Monday that the 2016 New York Marathon was likely the largest marathon ever completed with 51,388 finishers out of 51,995 people who started giving it a 98.8 percent completion rate. And should that finisher total hold up after a final review over the next few weeks, Sunday’s race would be the biggest ever. That's a lot of finishers isn't it? Better said, that's a whole lot of people who put in a whole lot of training for a whole lot of time-no doubt running most days of the week, maybe even twice a day, for months.

That same tenacity is exactly what is needed to finish our spiritual race too- but, according to a survey by the American Bible Society, most Christians are not putting in the proper training. While 88 percent of respondents said they own a Bible, only 26 percent of Americans said they read it on a regular basis (four or more times a week). You couldn't expect to finish a marathon training that way could you? Of course not. That's exactly why you and I are called to follow the example of the psalmist who, "meditates day and night," on the Word.

Consider this.. almost a third of the respondents said that our nation's moral decline was a result of people not reading the Bible, with 29 percent citing the “negative influence of America” and one in four citing corporate corruption. And of these numbers, there is one thing I know with 100 percent certainty, daily reading of the Bible has the power to change all that. It starts with changing individual lives then families, then communities and finally our country. We simply need to read it. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the absolute best self-help book and instruction manual that was ever written. From our finances to our families, the answers are all in the pages of your Word. May we read it daily as we look to you for guidance and encourage our children, friends and spouses to do the same. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Your Words - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zaaiFp4RSM

http://religionnews.com/2013/04/04/poll-americans-love-the-bible-but-dont-read-it-much/

The results are in

"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mark 4:39-40

The winners of Sunday's New York City Marathon were announced quickly with the results dominating racing headlines for several days. Kenyan runner, Mary Keitany, won the women's division for the third consecutive year and Ghirmay Ghebreslassie, of Eritrea, won the men's race becoming the youngest marathon winner in history at the age of 20. While Kenya claimed the second spot finishes, American runners Molly Huddle and Abdi Abdirahman took third filling the podium with both a men's and women's winner for the first time since 1994. As exciting as those results were though, you can be sure different results will be dominating the news very quickly.  

You see, today the winners of the elections all around the United States will be announced. And on this day, not only do you and I have a choice to make between candidates, we also have a choice to make about how we react to the results. When choosing the latter, I do hope that you will remember that no matter who becomes our next president, governor or state representative, God is still in control. And this same God who "rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" and they obeyed is the same God that is saying to us today... trust Me, I am still in charge. Pastor Rick Warren says it this way, "Every day, you have to decide who’s going to be in control of your life — you or God."

So it's your decision my friend. Trust in the Lord and let go of your worry and anxiety. Or continue crying out in the storm as Jesus asks, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" The choice is yours. As for me, I'm putting my trust in Jesus Christ no matter what the results may be.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your repeated promises that you were, are and always will be in control. As believers, help us to remember that, no matter what happens in this world, an eternity filled with no worry, fear or sin awaits us when we enter heaven. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Eye of the storm - Ryan Stevenson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sx8wTnnfSc

http://olympics.nbcsports.com/2016/11/06/new-york-city-marathon/

genuine faith

"I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you." 2 Timothy 1:5

There are no words to describe what a blessing it was to run the Bass Pro Half Marathon with my son, Luke, yesterday.  This 18-year-old man, who was once my 'little boy' struggling to keep up with me, now matched me stride for stride. And throughout the period of this 13.1 mile race, I couldn't help but thank God that I had been able to pass on my love of running to him. From the time he was born, Luke has been a witness of my passion and love for the sport-the feelings that inspired him now to embrace running as well. More importantly though, I was so happy to remember that we shared the same feeling for something, or shall I say someone else, that I love even more than running... Jesus Christ. My love for the Savior, something he also witnessed throughout his life, is the very thing he now embraces. Pretty cool, huh?

Timothy, inspired by the faith that first filled his grandmother and then his mother, was also a young man that loved Jesus Christ-something Paul, in his letter to Timothy, described as "genuine faith". By the example that these women showed to him, teaching and committing their own lives to the Savior, Timothy accepted the Lord and went on to become a pastor at Ephesus and to serve as Paul's representative to several other churches making a huge impact in the world. By their actions, these ladies prepared Timothy for this very thing, to love and serve God. 

So yes may we, as parents, lead by our example. May our children see and feel our "genuine faith" and our love for Christ because, as Henry Ward Beecher wrote, "The mother's heart is the child's classroom."

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that our children are always watching what we do. Although none of us will ever be perfect parents Lord, help us to teach our children that our love for them is as unconditional as your love is for us. Oh what a great Father you are! May our love for you be so evident to our children, that our "genuine faith" will be what they always remember and strive to imitate. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Humble and kind - Tim McGraw

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

Before the race

Finish line photo

I never dreamed,  when this was taken in 2011 (my second time running the Bass Pro Marathon), that my son would one day join me on the same course. Wow! God is indeed good!!!

- Henry Ward Be

ask the Expert

"If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking." James 1:5

What if in an instant you were never able to run again? That is exactly what happened to champion trail runner Dave Mackey in May 2015. During what was expected to be a routine trail run, Mackey fell off a cliff and tumbled more than 20 feet, badly breaking his left leg. Although he recovered enough to walk with a significant limp and was able to ride a bike, Dave wasn't able to run and was in constant pain. Now, after more than 16 months of surgeries, physical therapy and complications, the 46-year-old faced a huge decision-never run again and live in pain or have his lower left leg amputated below the knee and be back doing what he loves in 6-8 weeks with the use of a prosthetic. After consulting surgeons and other healthcare professionals about his options, he chose the latter and had the life-changing surgery Monday. God willing, Mackey will be back out on those trails soon with a huge smile on his face.  

That would be a tough decision to make wouldn't it? And while you and I may never have to make a decision of that magnitude, many of us are facing or will face difficult choices in our lives. It's then, like Dave, that we should consult an expert or, as I would always suggest, the Expert. The Bible clearly tells us that if we need wisdom to make any decision, we need only ask God, the absolute Expert in every subject, and He will give it to us. There is no problem so small that God would chastise us for consulting him either and no situation too big for which He could not provide the answer. In fact, God wants us to ask for his help because, more than anyone, He wants to guide us to make the decisions that are best for us.

C.H. Spurgeon says it this way,  "the true way to handle a matter wisely is to trust God. This is the short and brief method of escaping the greatest difficulties: this is the clue to the most intricate labyrinths; this is the lever which shall lift the most tremendous weights. He that trusts in the Lord has found out the way to handle matters wisely, and happy is he." Amen to that!

Heavenly Father, thank you for being such a great and awesome God that is also so personal and loving. Thank you for agreeing to grant us wisdom if we would simply ask. Thank you for your promise of leading us in the right direction if we would only follow you. Help us to consult your Word for the answers to all our questions, big and small. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Finding Favour - Say Amen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRcvcF_0_9M

http://running.competitor.com/2016/10/news/trail-runner-dave-mackey-decides-to-amputate-injured-left-leg_157809#hj2EPGXumUFqLzGz.99

Wait for it

"A wicked person earns deceptive wages, but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward." Proverbs 11:18

Yesterday it was announced that a new nonprofit organization called the Clean Sport Collective will celebrate runners who don't cheat or, as they say, those athletes who are "doing it the right way" and have taken the pledge to "train and complete clean." It seems that, amid an era of drug scandals where athletes are either being disqualified or stripped of their titles for doping almost weekly, people are finally saying enough is enough-it is not merely enough to punish the wrongdoers anymore. It is time to reward those who are honest and free from deception. 

That's a great concept isn't it? You know the Bible also talks about rewarding those people that are above cheating or striving to earn "deceptive wages" at any cost when it tells us that, "the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward." But unlike the Clean Sport Collective that grants those awards here and now, the righteous person may have to wait. You see, although God promised us a sure reward, He didn't promise that we would receive it this side of Heaven.

Of one reason the CSC was formed, Shana Burnett, founder, said, "It came out of so many people wanting to believe again in the sport and wanting to restore hope.” And restoring hope in a lost world is the exact thing you and I can do now by doing the right thing and letting Christ show through us-and doing that, my friends, comes with immediate rewards. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that the things we do here on this earth will have consequences or rewards that may not be seen here but in eternity. Help us to work for those prizes that we will never see this side of Heaven and to pursue righteousness above all else. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Run for the prize - Petra

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R1QKoUDjtI

The hard mile

"Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude."

"What should I eat this morning Mommy? Oh, I better eat something healthy. And water... what should I do about that? Should I drink a lot? I wish I would have trained for this. I don't want to run the mile in gym today Mom!" These were the tense words spoken by my young daughter yesterday morning with rarely a breath in-between sentences and leaving me no time to answer one question before the next one came. Now to many of us running a mile may not seem like a big deal, but to this little girl it was huge. As I patiently grabbed her hands and looked her in the eye, I reminded her that I still get nervous before races  and assured her that she could do this. "But you run lots of miles and races Mom," she said. To which I replied, "Yes honey but I started off with many hard miles too."

You know just as we are all at different levels physically, we are at different levels spiritually as well. But no matter where we are in either, we are, as one body of believers and "one mind", called to be humble, sympathetic, loving and tenderhearted to one another. And that means not making light of another person's struggles or worries. That small problem that you, from years of walking with Christ, know will work itself out can be the same problem that threatens to destroy someone else not yet mature in their faith. And that one mile that you may find so easy to complete now may seem like a marathon of mountains to another person. 

Before my daughter left for school, we prayed... hard. The same type of prayer she has heard me pray with others before a long, hard race. Upon finishing, she gratefully smiled as she realized that I knew what she was feeling and was now determined to finish the thing she had dreaded just moments before. So above all else, show real concern for what someone might be facing today. Support and encourage them, resisting the urge to play down the enormity of their situation, remembering those first miles were the hardest for all of us too.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many opportunities you give us to lift one another up and to show the love of Christ. While these simple exchanges may not seem like much, help us remember that our words and actions have the power to strengthen and encourage as well as to tear down and destroy. Help us to be meek. loving and tenderhearted at all times. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

The words I would say - Sidewalk Prophets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8t9u-LOa3OI