Our suffering is brief

"And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering." Romans 8:17 NLT

One decade after Katie Visco ran coast-to-coast from Boston to San Diego, she decided to run across Australia. And on November 8, her 2,200 mile journey which began on July 13 was over. She and her husband Henley Phillips, who trundled more than 350 pounds of gear and supplies on a bike beside her as she ran between 28 and 38 miles a day, reached the sight they'd been dreaming of for months... the ocean view at Adelaide. Of the journey they embarked on together, Henley said, "I thought I would mainly have to focus on the emotional support of Katie. And then I pretty quickly realized that it was going to be a massive physical effort for me as well." And although there were times when the sheer effort and agony demanded of them rendered the pair hopeless or even reduced to sobbing. still, they carried on because, as Visco reminded herself, "Whatever it is, if it's miserable, if it's joyful, if it's anything, it is brief."

And you know, when it comes to enduring brief suffering to take hold of something worthwhile, the apostle Paul warned the Christians in the early church in Rome that as "heirs of God's glory," they would experience persecution and possibly even death. But if they were to "share his glory," they "must also share his suffering." You see, there was and always will be a price to pay for following Jesus, a price that gets increasingly bigger every day as Christians face growing ridicule, hostility and ill-treatment for staying faithful and completely unwilling to conform to the ways of the world. 

So if you're tempted to give up in your pursuit to walk with Jesus, don't do it my friend. Instead remember that our trials are brief in comparison to the eternity we will spend with the Lord for sticking it out and finishing the race we have been called to run. So press on with all you have knowing it will soon be over. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that any trouble or trials we face on this earth for choosing to follow You will be temporary. Give us the strength to remain faithful to your Word Lord as the world's view of what is right and acceptable continues to go against the Truth. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Almost Home - MercyMe

Be thankful for each blessing

"He looked at them and said, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed of their leprosy. One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God!'" Luke 17:14,15 NLT

Billy Graham once wrote "A spirit of thanksgiving is always the mark of a joyous Christian. Why should we be thankful? Because God has blessed us, and we should be thankful for each blessing." But are we thankful for each one? I mean, while I know many people will be expressing thanks today for major things like family, food and a home, what about the million other blessings, both big and small, the Lord bestows on us each day?

Sadly, the majority of people never thank God for anything, not even life-changing things. Consider the story of the ten lepers who "were cleansed of their leprosy." Keeping in mind that leprosy in the ancient world hopelessly disfigured those who had it and permanently cut them off from normal society, can you just imagine how much every leper must have yearned to be healed? And yet when Jesus gave them the greatest desire of their heart, only "one of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus." Only one shouted "Praise God!" Only one. 

And while I may not have been healed from leprosy, I have a million other blessings to be grateful for. So today and every day until the Lord calls me home I will boldly declare my thankfulness by shouting, "Praise God!" even if I'm the only one. Will you?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that there are so many things to be thankful for in this world, especially for the salvation that was freely given to us when You died on the cross. Lord, please forgive us for the many times we have failed to thank You for even the smallest of blessings. Help us to remember that we deserve no good thing but receive them anyway because of Your great love for us. Today and every day Lord, may we boldly express thanksgiving to You with shouts of praise. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Grateful - Elevation Worship

Finish strong

"Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.''" Luke 23:42,43 NIV

Earlier this year, Deena Kastor stepped up to the start line of the Tokyo Marathon in hopes of garnering a sub 2:45 Olympic Trials qualifying time. And for the first half of the race, Kastor said everything was going to plan until another runner accidentally shoved her from behind causing her to fall to the ground, "I was pretty shaken by it," she said. "I knew I had to get up and keep going." Which she did until mile 20 when she was knocked to the ground again by an oblivious runner reentering the race course from the side. And while she didn't get the time she was going for, she was happy that she finished the race despite the mishaps. 

And you know, when it comes to finishing strong despite mishaps and falls, the Bible tells us about two criminals who each had a choice after experiencing significant ‘falls’ in life. Both had hit rock bottom and were being punished for their crimes by being crucified alongside Jesus (who had done nothing wrong). One criminal chose to join the people who were mocking Jesus while the other pleaded for mercy saying, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And because of that humble and desperate plea for forgiveness, Jesus answered him and said, “Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.'" 

Don't you just love that story? It's further proof that a person can finish strong no matter how they might have started the race, what sins they might have committed along the way, or how far away they may have drifted off course. You see, Jesus invites every sinner to come to repentance (even in the final hour) that they, too, might be with Him in paradise one day. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that your forgiveness and mercy are greater than anything we could ever imagine. For the person who has lost all hope and feels as if they can never be forgiven and welcomed into an eternity with You, I pray they will desperately and sincerely cry out to You today and allow You to restore them and give them the peace they so desperately need. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Finish Strong - Danny Gokey

My Redeemer lives

"I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth." Job 19:25 NIV

With only a mile left to go on my early morning run before church yesterday, I was deep in worship when my foot nicked the tip of a rock embedded into the gravel and I came tumbling down so hard and quick that it knocked the wind out of me. With my knees throbbing, hands hurting and my elbow scraped up, I laid there on the cold, hard ground trying to process what had just happened. I mean, one second I was fine and the next I was wondering whether I would be able to get back up. Thankfully though, I was able to gradually rise to my feet and walk off much of the pain before resuming a slow run back home - smiling as I did so while continuing to praise Him with every step. 

And you know, when it comes to being knocked down, most of us can recall a situation that changed our life in a moment. Perhaps it was the death of a loved one, an unexpected job loss or even a dismal diagnosis from a doctor. Job certainly understood all this. His life was seemingly picture-perfect until it all changed in an instant. You see, in a matter of minutes, Job lost his wealth, his servants and his children. But through each life-changing trial and even when Job was smitten with painful boils all over his body, he continued to praise God. Why? Because Job knew there was a better time coming because he knew that his “Redeemer lives." 

So if you've recently been sidelined by a situation or prognosis that has left you breathless, scared, confused or ready to give up hope, remember the words of Job my friend! Our Redeemer indeed lives! And He will one day take us home where there will be no more pain, no more tears and no more worries. And for that, we have cause to praise Him in all circumstances. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our suffering is never in vain no matter how it may appear. Help us to look past our present troubles and look to the Cross that we would not lose hope or give up. Strengthen us today Lord and renew our spirits with the knowledge that our Redeemer indeed lives. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

My Redeemer lives

Look to Jesus

"When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled." John 11:33 NIV

Knowing that my dear friend, Virginia, was going through one of the hardest trials of her life, I was pleasantly surprised to see her at the monthly Free 5k Donut Run hosted by our local health department on Saturday morning. And while Virginia feigned a smile and was cheerful with the other runners, it pained my heart to know her joyful grin and small-talk were covering up the intense hurt she was feeling inside. "Oh Father," I prayed as we began the race, "please comfort my friend. Only You know the pain she's feeling and only You can provide the comfort and peace she needs."

And you know what? It's true. Jesus sees every tear you and I shed and is "deeply moved in spirit and troubled" when we are experiencing pain just as He was when he saw Mary weeping over the death of her brother, Lazarus. In fact, Jesus was so upset that Mary "and the Jews who had come along with her" were heartbroken that He wept openly along with them, sharing in their pain, sadness, heartache, despair and grief. 

So if you're hurting today and think God doesn't know or doesn't care, think again my friend. The Lord understands our feelings because He has experienced them personally. And you can have confidence knowing He truly cares... the Cross proves it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us so much that You would actually weep with us. Lord, when we don't have all the answers help us to trust your plan and to let go of our need to fix things only You can fix. Help us to lean not to our own understanding but to look to You instead. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I look to You - Selah

Let the redeemed say so

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe," Psalm 107:1,2 NIV

When my teenage daughter started off her sentence by calling me Mother rather than the usual mom, I knew it was serious. "Mother," my daughter, Hope, said. "My friend told me today that her mother saw you early yesterday morning running around the track at the school." "And what's wrong with that?" came my reply. "Well apparently she also heard you! She said you were singing praise songs and raising your hands in the air. Do you think you could possibly stop that?" she asked evidently embarrassed by my actions. After laughing, I looked squarely into my daughter's eyes and smiled as I said,"I can't honey. And I won't. I am literally so overjoyed at what the Lord has done for me that praise just pours out." 

And you know what? I will forever rejoice, sing songs of praise and "give thanks to the Lord, for he is good." And I will also share my story of salvation with anyone who will listen. You see, not only did the Lord pay the ultimate price by sending His only Son to die on the cross to redeem me from my sins and give me a new life but "his love" for me "endures forever." Did you get that forever part? And guess what? If you're a believer, you too have the same reason to rejoice, sing songs of praise, "give thanks" and to share your story of salvation as well. 

So if you have been redeemed, are now a new creation, and know how much God loves you, will you share your testimony with others? I sure hope so my friend, because our stories have the power to save lives by inspiring the lost and the lonely to reach out to the only One we know who has life-changing power. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the millions of reasons we have to be thankful each and every day. You are so very very good to us. Lord help us to truly understand the enormity of what it means to be redeemed or bought back at a price that we would be unable to contain our praises or withhold our testimonies from anyone who will listen. Help us to be bold in sharing our stories Lord so the lost might be drawn to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Let the Redeemed - Josh Baldwin

Our choices define us

"No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her." Genesis 39:9,10 NIV

On November 18 Cory Mull, a reporter for MileSplit USA, wrote "Life is made up of decisions. And it's in those decisions, ultimately, that we are often defined by the choices we make." He then went on to explain how a timing error gave Clovis High School junior Jerrick Maldonado a New Mexico state championship he later realized he didn't win. Upon this knowledge, Maldonado decided he had to do the right thing and forfeited his winning medal to the true winner of the Class 5A race. And his integrity did not go unrewarded. The NMAA was so moved by Maldonado's choice that they awarded him one of only eight Compete With Class scholarships that are handed out every year worth $1,000. "It really is an act of sportsmanship beyond measure," NMAA Executive Director Sally Marquez told the ABJ. "It's the most 'Compete With Class' thing that has happened."

And you know, life truly is made up of decisions where our choices will define us as either people of integrity who are honest and morally upright, or as hypocrites whose behavior is contrary to what we claim to be. Joseph certainly understood this and so chose to be a man of integrity by being trustworthy, dependable and free of deceit and untruthfulness in all of his business practices. This included honoring his master, Potiphar, by avoiding the advances of Potiphar's wife who relentlessly pursued him "day after day.” Joseph not only “refused to go to bed with her,” but even avoided being with her. Joseph chose to honor the Lord in all he did, including in his work, and knew that, even if the affair were never discovered, he would be sinning “against God.” 

So acknowledging that any breach of our integrity will not only tarnish our testimony but would be a "sin against God," may you and I choose to make upright and honest decisions each and every day. May we choose to uphold our moral convictions both in public and in private by choosing to follow Jesus in all our ways.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for the great reminder that honesty is always rewarded. Help us to make decisions that reflect our love for and devotion to you Lord, remembering that we ultimately work for You. May our choices show that we live to please only our Master and draw others to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I Choose Jesus - Moriah Peters

Small things matter

“But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.’” Numbers 20:12 NIV

While nearing the end of the 26.2 mile course I was running on last weekend, I had to laugh when I read a sign intended to motivate me that read,"2.62 is what I thought you meant! Not 26.2!!" Wow! That decimal placed in the wrong spot could certainly have enormous and detrimental consequences couldn’t it? I mean, can you just imagine the pain a person would experience by making the 'small' mistake of signing up for a 26.2 mile marathon rather than a 2.62 mile race. But knowing our actions have consequences, we would be wise to pay close attention to even the 'smallest' of things we do. Don't you agree?

This was something Moses certainly came to know when he, upon praying for water for the grumbling Israelites and being told by God to speak to the rock to make water come forth, struck the rock with his staff twice instead. And although water indeed poured out, Moses’ 'small' act of disobedience had devastating consequences. Not only was he chastised for this seemingly 'small' transgression but was forbidden to enter into the promised land. And if you think that’s harsh punishment, consider this my friend... the Lord wants our complete obedience. And He does not waver or compromise in that requirement.

So may you and I pay attention to every Word and command the Lord has given us that we might not slip up in the ‘small’ things. After all, every act of disobedience, whether it appears large or small, comes with consequences you and I will want to avoid.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that all sins go against Your will and drive a wedge in our relationship with You. Help us to be ever vigilant in staying precisely in Your will Lord that we would avoid the consequences of going astray. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Take my Life - Jeremy Camp

Be willing to adapt

"When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law." 1 Corinthians 9:20 NLT

Thirty-eight thousand runners from 85 countries and regions were challenged by extreme heat at the 2019 Shanghai International Marathon on Sunday. The highest reported temperature of the day was 77 degrees with it reportedly feeling even hotter under the sun. Yang Dinghong, the first Chinese male runner to finish the full marathon in 2 hours, 15 minutes and 21 seconds later said, “The weather today is quite hot. But the back-up supply by the organizers was quite good. It shall not be a problem (to finish the race) as long as you adjust your mentality and adapt to the conditions.”

And you know, while it's very important to be able to adapt to changing conditions on the racecourse, it's even more important to be able to adapt the way we present the Good News of the Gospel to reach all people - something Paul clearly understood when he wrote, "When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under the law... so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law." You see, Paul didn't change the Message, he only adapted the way he presented it to whatever audience he might be speaking to, finding a commonality and building his presentation on that to make the Message easier to understand.

And you know, our world really hasn't changed much since Paul's time. There are lost people of all walks of life that need to hear the Gospel in a way they can identify with. So let us pray for discernment and wisdom as we make every effort to explain the Good News in the best way our listener will grasp it.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we are never to change the Message or compromise it in any way but should be willing and able to adapt the way we present it to our audience, introducing it in a way that will be clearly understood and lead the lost to You. Give us the wisdom and guidance to do that very thing Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Tell the World that - Hillsong United

We are all ambassadors

"Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us. We plead on Christ's behalf: "Be reconciled to God.'" 2 Corinthians 5:20 CSB

As one of three ambassadors for the Honoring our Heroes Marathon/half/relay/10k/5k that took place in Rolla, MO over the weekend, I was overjoyed to see a large group of runners and walkers at Sunday morning's race I was quite certain were there as a result of our efforts in persuading them to participate in the event - something each one of us did by boldly promoting the many great things they would receive from doing so. Things such as the satisfaction of donating to a great cause, gaining a memorable race experience and being rewarded with an awesome one-of-a-kind medal, shirt and post-race food.

And you know, when it comes to being an ambassador, or a respected official acting as a representative for something or someone, you and I as Christians are called to be "ambassadors of Christ" pleading to others "on Christ's behalf" to be "reconciled to God." That means you and I have an 'official position' to share the message of salvation with the lost by boldly explaining the great things they will gain by choosing to follow Jesus - things such as the forgiveness of sins, the peace that passes all understanding, unlimited joy, adoption into a new family, and eternal life with the Father. 

So as a believer and ambassador for Jesus Christ, can you confidently say there will be people joining you in heaven as a result of your efforts to persuade them to follow Jesus? If not, let me remind you that our job is an important one and it's not elective. So make no more excuses my friend. We have a lot of work to do. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that every believer is a representative of Jesus Christ and has an obligation to fulfill the calling to go out and make disciples of all nations starting where they are. Help us to take this responsibility seriously Lord that we would never waste an opportunity to go where You call us to lead someone to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Build my Life

Pure joy

"But the joy that you have given me is more than they will ever have with all their grain and wine." Psalm 4:7 GNT

Stepping up to the check-in booth before the start of Sunday's Dogwood Canyon 50k trail run, I frantically explained my dilemma, "I left my bib in my hotel room. Do I need to hurry back and get it or can I get a replacement?" "Of course you can get a replacement!" my dear friend Melissa, who just happens to be the race director, said as she smiled and graciously handed me a new one. But upon a quick glance, I realized the bib was for the wrong distance. "I don't mind taking this one if it doesn't matter though," I said as I held it out. "Oh no," Melissa replied. "It does matter. You'll get the wrong medal if you cross the finish line with this bib." "That's okay," I laughed as she went ahead and made the exchange. "I don't do it for the medal." 

And you know what? I really don't participate in these events for the medals. I run races for the opportunities they provide to encourage fellow participants, to share the Good News of the Gospel and because I love spending alone time with the Lord - time where there are no distractions and I can simply bask in His creation and enjoy His presence. And like the psalmist who professed that "the joy" the Lord had given him was more precious than all the “grain and wine” he could ever possess, "the joy" the presence of the Lord gives me "is more" precious than all the medals I could ever possess. 

So if life has emptied you of your joy today my friend, I encourage you to spend some time in the Word and then go outside for a walk or a run. I can assure you the alone time with the Lord will have you smiling as you experience the pure and lasting joy that comes only from being in His presence.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the incomparable joy that can only be found in your Presence. There is nothing in this world - no medal, no trophy and no amount of "grain and wine" - that could ever compare to it Lord. Give us a tenacious passion to seek this time with You each and every day that the world would see Your people overflowing with joy. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Audience of One - Big Daddy Weave

The Lord directs our steps

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

"Amber, is that you?" I called out as I approached a person walking with a slight limp on the course of the trail run I was participating in on Sunday. As the person turned around, I saw that it was indeed my friend, Amber, and I was instantly overcome with the knowledge of how our chances of intersecting at this point in the race were nothing short of miraculous. "What does she need Lord?" became my quick prayer that was soon answered. "Oh Melissa," she said through tears. "I rolled my ankle and I'm really in a lot of pain. Will you please pray for me?" "Of course," I said quickly as I wrapped my arm around her. "Let's pray right now. Heavenly Father...." 

And you know, if you've ever been up and down the many miles of meandering ‘hills’ and valleys at the Dogwood Canyon Park in Lampe, MO, you’d know that a meeting such as this is nothing short of supernatural. But thankfully, as the psalmist knew, "the Lord directs the steps of the godly." That means when you and I surrender to His will, He will lead us to those people and places where He can use us. And you can be sure that, as Amber can attest to, the Lord "delights in every detail" of our lives by personally sending other believers to comfort us when we need it. 

So I don't know about you my friend, but that thought makes me smile. I mean thinking how the Creator of the universe loves His children so much that He would arrange divine appointments such as this should make us all grin from ear to ear, don’t you agree?

Heavenly Father, thank You for arranging this divine appointment that gave Amber the hope and strength to make it to the finish line. Help us to go where you send us Lord and to speak when you inspire us to do so. May our steps lead us to the places where you can use us to witness to the lost and encourage our brothers and sisters. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I will go - Starfield

Speak up

"This is what the LORD says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place." Jeremiah 22:3 NIV

On November 7 when Mary Cain, once titled the fastest girl in America, came out with the stories of the cruelty and exploitation she had suffered under the Nike Oregon Project, famed runner Kara Goucher showed her full support by tweeting, "I am so proud of @runmarycain for telling her powerful story of verbal, emotional, and physical abuse at the Nike Oregon Project. This took so much bravery. We have to stop the abuse of athletes, specifically females." Moving forward to further advocate for all women, Goucher says she hopes these conversations will lead to more female coaches, training about abuse and ways to report abuse.

And you know, when it comes to advocating for justice, or speaking up on behalf of someone that has been wronged, the Bible tells us to "do what is just and right" and "rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed." Can you see that to do and rescue are clear calls to action though? That means when you and I see someone being treated harshly or unfairly, we are not to sit idly by saying, "I don't want to get involved," but do whatever we can to ensure the 'oppressed' person is freed from their unjust treatment or control. 

So rather than staying quiet when witnessing the oppression, mistreatment or abuse of another person, remember this my friend... One determined voice can change lives around the world - and that voice very well could belong to you. So speak up. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that as believers we have an obligation to speak up for those who may be or feel powerless. Help us to use the positions You have placed us in Lord to help right wrongs when it is in our power to do so. Help us to be bold in speaking up for what we know is right. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Not be silent

The best is yet to come

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all those who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:8 NIV

With less than a mile to go before crossing the finish line of the Dogwood Canyon 15k trail run Saturday, I came upon a fellow participant who had slowed down to a walk. “We’re almost there!” I emphatically shouted hoping to cheer him on. “I know,” he replied sullenly while shaking his head. “And I’m really sad about it.” “So I take it you’re not coming back tomorrow for either the 25k or 50k?” I replied. “No,” the young man said, “But I won’t make that same mistake next year. I’m taking the challenge.” Laughing out loud, I smiled and said, “Well God willing I’ll be back next year too and I can’t wait to see the smile you’ll have on your face at this same point knowing there’s more to come.”

And you know, when it comes to a person reaching the end of any race and feeling sadness rather than joy, I can only imagine it’s the way those people who have not put their faith in Jesus must feel as they reach the end of their lives. I mean, if a person hasn't accepted Christ, death is final and most definitely a cause for despair. Thankfully though, there’s so much more to come for those people who have placed their trust in Jesus and “who have longed for his appearing.” These people can smile when they come to that final finish line knowing, as Paul knew, that “there is in store” for them a “crown of righteousness” and eternal life with the Savior.

So if you've lost hope today and think this life is all there is, I want you to know this doesn’t have to be the end my friend. By accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior right now, you can begin living with purpose and smile knowing the best is yet to come. 

Heavenly Father, thank You that as believers we can have complete confidence in the fact that there is more to come when this life is over. Help us to have an urgency to spread that message to the lost Lord that they might share in that hope and have no regrets or feelings of sadness when the end is near but run as fast as they can into Your arms. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!  

Almost Home - MercyMe

Pay your respects

“Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due.” Romans 13:7 BSB

As I stood in the starting corral of Sunday’s Dogwood Canyon trail run yesterday, I listened intently to the words of our national anthem being sung that would signify the start of the race, “whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight…” and was overcome with thankfulness for the sacrifice of the many veterans who have fought “the perilous fight” so I could be free to do the things I love – things like worshiping the Lord as I please and running races such as this one - because I know full well the freedoms we Americans enjoy were not 'free.' They were earned through the hard work and bought by the sacrifice of thousands of veterans over many generations who unselfishly chose to serve our country to ensure it was and will stay the “land of the free and home of the brave.”

And you know, when it comes to expressing our thankfulness, the Bible is clear that you and I are to “pay everyone” what we owe them. This means giving “respect to whom respect is due” and “honor to whom honor is due.” And if giving someone respect and honor means holding them in high esteem as a result of something they have done or were willing to do, you and I would do well to thank the men and women who have served in both times of peace and war for their willingness to join “the perilous fight” whenever and wherever they might be called.

So on this Veteran’s Day, may we be sure to give “honor to whom honor is due” by thanking a veteran for their service to our country. After all, as George Orwell wrote, “People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that freedom is never free and that we owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served to make our country a place where we are free to worship You. Help us to return to being a country once again fully united under the slogan “one nation under God” Lord that their service might not have been in vain. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

We remember - Steven Curtis Chapman

Be an encourager

“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Ephesians 4:29 NLT

Upon crossing the finish line of the Bass Pro Marathon Sunday, I graciously accepted my medal before heading to the food line intent on abating the hunger pains that had risen up between miles 20 and 26.2. But as I anxiously made my way to the nachos, I was stopped in my tracks by a female runner who approached me and said, “Thank you for being a pacer today. I didn’t actually join your pace group but followed close behind and listened to the words you spoke to encourage those who were running with you. And those words helped me more than you’ll ever know.” As we then embraced and I fought back tears, she whispered, “Truly you were a Godsend today.”

And you know, whether you and I know it or not, people are always listening to us. And the words we speak have the power to either lift them up or bring them down. Paul clearly understood this and so gave us this command,” Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” You see, as believers we are called to be encouragers, or people who inspire others to have hope, courage, strength, determination and a renewed desire to press on.

So let’s be encouragers my friend. Let's be intent on speaking only "good and helpful" words at all times that others might not only benefit from hearing them but be drawn to the Savior who inspires them.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for the timely reminder that our words indeed have the power to inspire others to keep running the race when they feel like giving up. Help us to remember that we are Your hands and feet wherever we go and so should see everything that we do as an opportunity to remind people that, through You, they have all the power they need to make it through this life and across the finish line. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!

Power - We Are Messengers

Two are better than one

"Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven." Matthew 18:19 CEV

In an epic finish at the New York City Marathon Sunday, Caryn Lubetsky pushed Kerry Gruson, who became a quadriplegic more than 30 years ago, across the finish line in 3 hours, 54 minutes and 25 seconds to set the world record for the fastest marathon run by a woman while pushing a wheelchair. Caryn later said, "I just wanted to go out there and enjoy the journey ... but we got out there and the crowd was amazing, and we just pushed and gave it everything we had. We broke the world record … but most importantly, we think we showed the world that when two people come together anything is possible.”

And you know what? Caryn is right. 'When two people come together anything is possible.' Jesus told us so when he said, "If two of you agree about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in Heaven." Does that mean we can ask for a free trip to Disney World and have it given to us? Of course not. It means when two or more believers are filled with the Holy Spirit and earnestly pray according to God's will and not their own, whatever they ask for will be granted. 

So before asking for anything in prayer, be sure to seek the Lord's will first my friend. Because it’s only when you and I pursue His will above ours that we can pray with one another in confidence.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that when two or more of your followers, filled by the Holy Spirit, pray according to Your will, the world will see that anything is possible. Help us to be those believers that earnestly seek you each and every day that we would know Your will and pray in accordance with it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Holy Spirit - Francesca Battistelli

Be strong and immovable

"So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." 1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV

As I consistently and repeatedly looked down at my Garmin watch to ensure I was on track to get the runners in my group to the finish line in the 4:45 time (4 hours, 45 minutes) listed on my pace stick, one of the runners looked at me suspiciously. "I have to keep on top of this every moment," I said. "It's so much easier to speed up to make up for lost time or slow down if we're going too fast if I can tell exactly when it's happening." At this explanation the runner smiled, seemingly thankful that she could place her trust in me. 

And you know, I truly take the job of pacing seriously because I know the runners 'in my care' are counting on me to "be strong and immovable" in my pursuit to lead them. And while others might see this mission as foolish or totally unrelated to furthering the Kingdom, the Bible tells us that nothing you and I "do for the Lord is ever useless." And for that reason, we should "work enthusiastically" for Him wherever He has placed us, showing His love to others through our genuine love for them. You see, not only could those runners count on me to get them to the finish line on time, they could count on me to talk about my Savior along the way and the many reasons they should choose to follow Him. 

So "dear brothers and sisters," wherever God has placed you today, whether it be pacing a group of runners, leading a small Bible-study group, teaching a Yoga class or even ringing up customers at a convenience store, be fixed on the mission of sharing Christ with others through your "work" knowing that God can and will use you where you are to lead others to the foot of the Cross. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being able to use us where we are and as we are. Lord, help us to steadfast and immovable in our mission to spread the Gospel that we would allow You to use us completely-in every aspect of our lives from our homes to our jobs and to our hobbies. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Tell Somebody - Danny Gokey

Never look back

"But Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt." Genesis 19:26 NIV

According to a recent statement published in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension, excess consumption of sodium has been associated with a number of health issues. So much so that the World Hypertension League wants to add warning labels to salt shakers. An example of such a warning label would read: “Too much sodium in the diet causes high blood pressure and increases risk of stomach cancer, stroke, heart disease and kidney disease. Limit your use.” Jacqui Webster, P.h.D., director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre on Population Salt Reduction told Runner’s World, "It is hoped that displaying a clear warning label on packages of salt sold in supermarkets and on salt containers in restaurants will have a significant impact on sodium consumption, thereby reducing rates of ill health."

And while eating processed foods containing an overabundance of sodium while going heavy on the salt shaker are definitely detrimental to our physical health, the Bible is clear that looking back longingly to our past while trying to grow closer to God is unquestionably detrimental to our spiritual health. And while you and I might not turn into a "pillar of salt" by doing so as Lot's wife did when she "looked back" longingly at the smoldering city of Sodom, we can easily be drawn back to our old life and the sin that leads to death when we fail to leave the past behind completely.

So resist the urge to look back on your old life my friend. Especially if it will entice you to return to the sinful ways you left behind. And make a vow to stand firm and grow in your walk with the Lord knowing you can't both look back and move forward at the same time. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that we are either looking to You or looking back at the sin we have left behind. Help us to commit our lives to serving You, and only You, wholeheartedly today and give us the strength and the discernment to leave the past in the past and to never ever look back. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Don't look back

Jesus is our greatest treasure

"'Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." Matthew 6:19, 20 NIV

Stepping up to the front of the room at the Bass Pro Marathon prerace devotional early yesterday morning, I looked out to see a group of runners ready to praise the Lord before setting out to run the race. Smiling as I felt the Spirit leading me to speak, I said these words to encourage them...

In 2018, 284 people crossed the finish line of the Bass Pro Marathon and 1,150 people completed the Cohick Half Marathon. Does anyone here know who won those events? Well Shane Etzenhouser and Michelle Andrew were the top male and female finishers for the full and James Wilson and Kimi Reed placed first in the half. So even if we did remember any of their names this year, will we remember them next year? How about 20 years from now? And upon researching who won the very first Bass Pro Marathon in 2007, I found there were 256 finishers with Becky Lowrance taking home the top female award and Matt Wegenka the top male award. But not only are these pioneers of the race no longer celebrated, their records have been broken many times providing further proof that nothing lasts forever. 

Quite honestly, I ran the Bass Pro Marathon last year and if I hadn’t been a pacer would not have remembered my time. In fact, this year will make the 10th year to run this race and I don’t remember any of my times. Similarly, while the joy and excitement of completing the race today will be super intense for all of us for 24-48 hours just as it is with all races, the feelings will soon ebb off and we will be left with only memories that too will fade with time. My point is this…Most of the things that will happen today will be forgotten. The medals will eventually find their way into a box and the race shirts will wear out, be donated to charity, or simply be thrown away. But everything you and I do for the Lord today, serving Him by serving others, giving Him the glory for the strength in our legs and the air in our lungs and letting His light shine through us for all to see will be stored up as treasures in Heaven.

And this is the exact reason Jesus told us to not store up our treasures here on earth where moths will eat and rust will destroy them but to store our treasures in heaven where they will last forever. In other words, everything we acquire in this world will one day be reduced to rubble and everything we have done will be forgotten. But the things we have done for Jesus and in His Name will be remembered for eternity by a God who promises us eternal life for having put our faith and trust in Him. My friends Jesus knows our hearts and He knows our motives and has commanded us to love Him above all things. That means glorifying Him should be the reason behind everything that we do. Which ultimately means, as Christian athletes, we are not only to run the race to the best of our ability but to do it in His Name and for His glory.

So I want to end with this, In Colossians 3:23-24 we are given this command, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” So let us run the race today with our eyes fixed on the final finish line working to receive the ONLY reward that will last forever.  And let us show the world by our speech and actions that Jesus Christ is our greatest treasure because as missionary C.T Studd said, "Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last."

Heavenly Father, thank You for the many lessons your Word teaches us. Help us to remember that only what we do for You and through You will matter when we reach our final resting place. With that in mind Lord, please give us a passion to serve You wholeheartedly and to work unceasingly to lead others to the foot of the Cross. Let us live each day to please You Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Build my life - Pat Barrett