Stand out among the others

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:" 1 Peter 2:9 KJV

In an article published by Runners World on March 23 titled, “The Dos and Don’ts of Marathon Spectating,” Jes Woods, Nike Run Club coach and manager at Mile High Rub Club studios in New York City, offered this tip for cheering on your runner. Don’t worry about blending in with the crowd. The marathon can be an all-day event and it’s important to pack supplies to sustain you throughout the race. Woods recommends spectators bring snacks, water, a portable phone charger, and hand warmers if the weather calls for them. Plus, it helps to stand out from the crowd with a few extra key items. “Whether it’s a cowbell or a megaphone or a whistle or those clapping things—bring anything that you have to make yourself be seen or be heard,” Woods says. Being seen also includes what you’re wearing, Woods says. “Dress loud, be loud, go ahead and wear your tie-dye sweatshirt, bright colors, something that is going to make you stand out,” she says. “Your runner is staring into the crowd trying to spot you just as much as you’re trying to spot them.” So, you want to stand out among the others—that means you don’t need to worry about looking cool, but think more about being seen.

And you know, when it comes to standing out "among the others" in this world, you and I should most definitely be more worried about imitating Jesus than looking cool or blending in. In fact, since we are privileged to be “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood” and a “holy nation,” we should strive to live our lives in a such a pure and moral way that we are known as “a peculiar people." So odd and unusual that we can't help but daily sing the praises of the One who called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light, no matter how uncool and bizarre that makes us look in the eyes of the world. 

So in a box of standard crayons, be a bright neon one my friend. Be bold, be willing to stand out, and be willing to let the light of Jesus shine so brightly through you that others would be inspired to come out of the darkness and into His marvelous light. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing us the privilege of being called a "chosen generation" when we were so unworthy of the title. Lord, in response to the love You have given us when it was unmerited, help us to be so thankful that we can't help but live for You in response and sing your praises so that others would be drawn to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!