gracerunner413: 2014 Prairie Spirit Trail 50/100 mile run

gracerunner413: 2014 Prairie Spirit Trail 50/100 mile run: 2014 Prairie Spirit Trail 50/100 run     The story starts with the Friday night packet pickup.  Our original plan was that I would ...

gracerunner413: gracerunner413: There's no problem too big

gracerunner413: gracerunner413: There's no problem too big: gracerunner413: There's no problem too big : There's no problem too big "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everyt...

2014 Prairie Spirit Trail 50/100 mile run

2014 Prairie Spirit Trail 50/100 run

The story starts with the Friday night packet pickup.  Our original plan was that I would run with Michelle Lewis the first 50 and Shannon Briscoe would run the last 50 with her.  Actually, the first "original" plan called for me to run the whole 100 miles with Michelle.  Because of injury, this was not going to be possible so we came up with the next one.  Little did we know, God had a much better plan.  In fact, we found out, He had everything set in place to make for one amazing testimony. 

We get to the packet pickup and Shannon felt God telling her to sign up for the 100.  Even if she only completed 50, she would still be allowed on the same course so we could both start with Michelle (the 50 mile race started later so it wasn't an option).  The only problem was registration was closed.  Heike, Shannon, Laura, Hopee and me gathered for prayer right there at the packet pickup and prayed God's will be done and we went off in search of the race director.  After stating our request and reassuring him that we wouldn't die on the course he agreed to let her enter.  Only problem now was cost.  It was $225.  Shannon only had $125 to spare.  We went back to the hotel room and prayed again.  We only had 45 more minutes before closing time when my husband donated the $100 she needed.  God put His plan into action.  Back to the packet pickup to register and then to get some rest. 

 Didn't get to sleep until about 12am then up at 4:30 for coffee, prayer and a protein bar.  Michelle had arrived to the hotel at about 11:00 pm so only had a few minutes to talk with her.  I was anxious to get running and talk some more.  We all felt that she was troubled and wondered if she was the reason we were there.  Whatever God's plan was would soon be revealed. 

Arrived at the start by 5:30 and was greeted by Sara Ochs, a team 413 member from Kansas City. She was there to bring us coffee and pray with us.  Love my TEAM 413 brothers and sisters!!

Shannon Briscoe and Michelle Lewis

A big hug for Sara Ochs

Heike, Laura, me, Michelle, Shannon and Sara

Lisa Doss Shipp hugging Sara 

 To our surprise, Robert Horton said a prerace prayer for all the runners and then we moved into the starting line.  It was still dark outside so we used our headlamps and knuckle lights to maneuver the first 5-6 miles of the course.  Before long, Shannon, Michelle and I were settling into a rhythm and the conversation immediately turned to God.  As we suspected, Michelle's heart was troubled.  She had been searching for something to fill the ache in her soul.  Like most of us, the world and bad decisions brought her to places she never thought she would be.  As we listened to her life story, Shannon and I were overcome with love for her. 

Shannon and I have both been at the bottom and we shared similar stories of our lives before Jesus saved us. I find it funny how people can assume that Christians have always led a "righteous" life.  Not for this girl!  And certainly not for most of my other sisters.  We all have a past.  It's only by God's grace that any of us get through this life with a shred of dignity.  As we shared more of our testimony, Michelle shared more of her struggles.  Shannon and I spent the next 20 miles telling Michelle of how and why Jesus loves her.  We cried.  We laughed.  And we felt the presence of Jesus on that trail.  He cared so much for her that he sent us to tell her!!!  The stories we shared were from our heart. They were real and they were about a God that lifted us up from the pit we were in and placed us into a group called TEAM 413 to share with others the goodness of Christ. 

Michelle accepted Jesus that day.  She needed Him, He was waiting and they embraced on that Prairie Spirit Trail.  At about mile 30, Shannon and I told Michelle to go on.  We wanted her to go after her goal of reaching 100 miles.  During that time, though, we had talked about how we all had nothing to prove by pushing ourselves.  As Christians, we were here to do what God wanted us to... nothing more, nothing less.  Shannon and I knew that our job was done and that a medal would be only for the world to see.  We didn't need it.  As we watched Michelle run off, we began to cry.  The power of seeing God work and knowing that He used us was overwhelming for both Shannon and me.  We spent the last miles talking, laughing and praising Him. 

Heike and Laura had been at every stop along the route to provide support (Lisa had to leave because her daughter got sick), encouragement and massage.  Heike had to tape me up several times as different body parts started to hurt.  What a day!  After we finished, we joined them to be the support to Michelle as she continued on.  To all our surprise, she was on fire!  She was so full of joy and never stopped smiling!  We didn't know if she would/could finish but we knew we would be there by her side the whole way. 

At mile 40, I broke out into hives and swelled up like I had been stung by bees.  My feet were so swollen I couldn't wear shoes.  I made it another 4 miles and decided I was done!  Shannon took my bib and finished at mile 50 (she's a trooper!) where she was met by Robin Chevalier (another TEAM 413 member and dear friend) who came to cheer us on.   I went to sleep on the grass and the support van followed Shannon.  Meanwhile, Laura had donned her pacer bib and was running with Michelle for 10 miles (Michelle was way ahead of us).   After my nap, my husband took me to the checkpoint where Shannon was finishing up and we were off to the next one to aid Laura and Michelle. 

They both still looked pretty good (mile 61 for Michelle, 10 for Laura) at this point so they decided to go on (we made Laura take her phone this time).  Off we were to the next checkpoint.  Then we get a call.  Laura says, "Um, I can't keep up with Shannon and told her to go on and now I'm out here in the dark and I'm cold.  Come get me!"  It seems, she underestimated the amount of time she would be out there and was not dressed for it.  We searched and searched for her and couldn't find her.  Meanwhile she calls us excited and says, "God gave me a flashlight and it works!"  She had looked down and found a flashlight to brighten her way in addition to her headlamp. By waving that flashlight, she caught the attention of another support van who picked her up (we still couldn't find her) and brought her back to the checkpoint where we met her.  We all had a good laugh at that, especially Laura as she thawed out!  By the way, she told us that we sucked at search and rescue missions.  How funny! 

Michelle made it to mile 77.  By this time, we were all snuggled in the van napping.  Heike in the driver seat, me in the passenger, Shannon in the floor and Laura spread out on the back seat.  Michelle knocked on the window and told us she was done.  Said she just couldn't go on and told us the story of a dog that led her the last mile (a dog no one else saw).  Can't help but think it was a guardian angel. 

We got back to the hotel and everyone crashed!  We woke up about 8am and everyone had a smile on their face.  Especially Michelle.  Heike gave her a massage and stretched out her muscles.  After we all got a much needed shower, we had breakfast where we chatted like old friends.  I don't think any of us will ever be the same again.  God took a group of women on a journey that only He could have orchestrated.  We were all in awe at God that weekend and found a new appreciation for our bonds with our sisters in Christ.  God willing, we all vowed to do it again.  Can't wait to see what God has in store for our next adventure. 


A forever group of friends bound together by a love for Christ







gracerunner413: There's no problem too big

gracerunner413: There's no problem too big: There's no problem too big "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgivin...

There's no problem too big

There's no problem too big

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things.  Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me -- put it into practice.  And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:6-9

I struggle with fear.  Always have.  If I had a quarter for everything  that I feared would happen that didn't happen.... well, let's just say I'd have a lot of money.  I think most of us experience fear at some point in our lives.  All fear is not harmful though.  In fact, we need rational fear to keep us safe.  For example, you fear walking home alone on a dark night or bungee jumping. God gives us that kind of fear to avoid situations that might result in harm to us.  He loves us that much.

But what if your fear and worry is really about not trusting God to handle your situation? Or that His will for your life isn't what's best for you?   If it was, why would you be experiencing bad things right?  Maybe you think God just doesn't care about your problems or your problem is just too big?  If that's your belief, I assure you, first of all, that He does care, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7, and secondly,  the problem is never too big.  Let me ask you this... Who is bigger-God or your problem?  Who loved you enough to send His son to die on a cross?  Who knocked down the walls of Jericho?  Who parted the Red Sea?  Who really took down Goliath?  Who is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords?

God has been and always will be bigger than your problem, my problem and any problem.  Where does fear and worry get you anyway?   Matthew 6:27 asks the question, "Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?"  In other words what has fear done for you?  Has it ever solved your problem?  Just the opposite.  It makes us unable to see beyond the worry of the situation to God's peace over the situation.

Wouldn't you like to trade that fear and worry for peace?  You can!  By "prayer and thanksgiving", you can give all that to Jesus  He will replace it with the "peace of God that transcends all understanding."  The peace nothing else in this world can give you.

Heavenly Father, thank you for taking our fears and worries and replacing them your peace-the peace that surpasses all understanding.  Please guard our hearts and our minds and bless us with your presence in our lives today and everyday.  Please help us to overcome worry and fear knowing that you are big enough to handle any problem we have today, tomorrow and forever.  In your precious name we pray, Amen.  

Happy Running!!!

gracerunner413: TEAM 413-Worth it all

gracerunner413: TEAM 413-Worth it all: As you read this, TEAM 413 will be in pursuit of finishing a 100 mile race in Ottawa, Kansas.  Please pray for us today, tonight and th...

TEAM 413-Worth it all

As you read this, TEAM 413 will be in pursuit of finishing a 100 mile race in Ottawa, Kansas.  Please pray for us today, tonight and throughout the day tomorrow as we pursue this goal and glorify God through the victory.  Pray that we touch those who need the presence of Jesus and that they see Christ in us.  Pray that, despite our physical limitations, the power of Jesus would shine through.  May He keep us from injury and guide our every step.  Praise you Father for allowing us to be the light to someone today.  We love and adore you Father with every breath we take.  Breathing in your grace, breathing out your praise.

May God be glorified!!!!

I hope you're inspired to pray for us even more as you watch this video.  If even one person is blessed by our presence at this race, it will be worth it all.  

gracerunner413: Go light your world

gracerunner413: Go light your world: Go light your world "You are the light of the world.  A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and...

Go light your world

Go light your world

"You are the light of the world.  A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.  Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."  Matthew 5:14-16

There's no doubt about it, as Christians we are called to be a "light" in this world.   Just as you can't hide a city sitting on top of a hill (its light would be seen for miles), we should not hide our love for Christ. Instead, we should be willing and ready to share that light to all those living in darkness.  He calls us to be the light of the world, not the light of our church, our run group or our home... not just the light to our prayer group, our neighbors or our coworkers.  The world!  Wow, we have a lot of space to cover don't we?

Maybe you're doing this already?  Or maybe you would like to but don't know what to do or say?  Reading the manual (the bible) is the best place to start.  By growing closer to Christ and knowing His word, you will be better equipped to do the job God has called us all to do "go and make disciples of all nations".  Matthew 28:19.  There are three ways you can start today wherever you are in your walk with Christ.

*Be filled with the Spirit- it is important to be in a right relationship with God as you talk to others about how they can know God.
*Pray for opportunities-whether you are headed to the grocery store or to a race, pray that God would use you to be a blessing to someone in word or deed.  By your actions, you might create an opportunity to share what Christ has done in your life.
*Be authentic-Show that you truly love the person and are concerned with what they might be going through.  Humble yourself and be careful not to judge.  Remember that He died for all of us not some of us "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."  Romans 5:8

In the words of Thomas Jefferson, "Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today."  More fitting would be to say, "Don't put off until tomorrow what God is telling you to do today".  In this world filled with so much darkness, make a difference in someone's life.  While one candle can't light up the entire night, it can light up the night for one person to find their way back to Jesus.  "What do you think?  If a man owns a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?  And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that didn't wander off.  In the same way your Father is heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish."  Matthew 1:10-14

Heavenly Father, Help us to be the light in this dark world.  Please give us the boldness, the opportunity and the willingness to witness to others.  We pray that you use us and work through us to be a blessing to someone today and every day.  We also pray for strength to overcome any obstacle in our way.   In your precious name we pray, Amen.  

Now take your candle and go light your world.  

Happy Running!!

gracerunner413: The joy of the Lord

gracerunner413: The joy of the Lord: The joy of the Lord "for the joy of the Lord is your strength."  Nehemiah, 8:10 Sometimes I think I really need to come wit...

The joy of the Lord

The joy of the Lord

"for the joy of the Lord is your strength."  Nehemiah, 8:10

Sometimes I think I really need to come with a warning label.  Especially if I'm running with someone new. Someone who may not know how excited I can become when I'm running and praising while listening to worship music. It should read as follows:  CAUTION: the runner you are next to is prone to sudden and uncontrollable outbursts of Thank you Jesus, Praise the Lord, Hallelujah and sometimes, Oooh that hurts but thank God I'm alive.  In the event she gets overheated, take out her headphones and make her lie still while quoting Psalm 23. 

The bible is full of praises to the Lord and people praising Him.  1 Chronicles 29:10 says that "David praised the Lord in the presence of the whole assembly."  Psalms 103:1 says that David praised Him saying, "Praise the Lord, my soul, all my inmost being, praise his holy name."  And in 2 Samuel 22:47, he praised him saying, "The Lord lives!  Praise be to my rock!   Exalted be my God, the rock, my Savior!"   Notice the exclamation points on the last verse.  I can assure he wasn't whispering.  Author John Eldredge said the following, "Worship is the act of an abandoned heart adoring its God."  Webster defines abandon as a complete lack of restraint.  I've been accused of that a time or two.

What can we learn from this about our praises?  First, like David, we should praise him in front of the whole assembly-this means in front of all we know.  He is worthy to be praised at all times not just when you're alone.  If you're walking closely with Jesus, this will be something you want to do.  Second, we should praise him from our inmost being.  Our praise should come from our very souls and be so genuine that we couldn't hold it in if we tried.  And lastly, we should do it loud and proud.

If you think you have nothing to praise Him for, I urge you to think again.  Do you have a home?  Do you have enough food to eat and water to drink?  Are you able to work?  Do you even have a job?  Start with that and you'll soon find that you have more to be thankful for than you know.  And remember that all we have comes from God. 1 Timothy 6:17 tells us that God "richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." And, isn't that enough to be thankful for and praise His name?  I think so.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of today.  Thank you for the gift of salvation and the Holy Spirit in our lives.  May we worship you with abandon and sing your praises all the day long.  In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.

Happy Running!!!

You'll want to add this one to your playlist.  Turn it up!!

gracerunner413: During Life's storms

gracerunner413: During Life's storms: During Life's storms "That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, " Let us go to the other side. "  Leavin...

During Life's storms

During Life's storms

"That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go to the other side."  Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat.  There were also other boats with him.  A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped.   Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion.  The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?  He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!'  Then the sing died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid?  Do you still have no faith?"  Mark 5:35-40

Everywhere I turn these days it seems there are people hurting.  Turn on the news.  There's chaos and fighting overseas, mudslides in the US, joblessness, suicides and the list goes on.  Unfortunately, it's not just on the news, its in our own communities and in our own homes.   We are really struggling.  Yes, even us Christians.  Take heart if you're anxious or afraid, the disciples were on the boat with the savior and they were afraid.

In fact, several of these men were seasoned fishermen and sailors who had seen many storms in their career. The fact that they were afraid that they would perish meant this must have been a huge storm.  Although Jesus was right there, they didn't think he cared.  Can you believe that?  He was there!  He was physically with them on the boat and they still worried.  But at the very moment one of the disciples cried out to Him, he responded by rebuking the wind and telling the waves to be quiet and be still.  Get this though (I love this), the sound of that big storm did not wake Him, the small cry of one of his sheep did!  Matthew 10:29 says that, "Not even a sparrow...can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it."

Sometimes he answers our cries immediately and other times after we reach the point of desperation.  Praise those times of desperation because some of us need to be broken to see He is our only hope...our anchor in the storm.  Just as Jesus said, "Let's cross to the other side of the lake", He will finish the work He has begun in us.   During those dark times in our lives, we should listen to the voice of our savior telling us to be "quiet, be still."  Then cry out to Him.  He will hear your voice over the largest storm.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being our protector through the storms in our life.  Please help us to remember that you are always with us and that you hear us when we cry out to you.  Calm our hearts as you calmed that storm Jesus.  In your name we pray, Amen.  

Happy Running!!!

gracerunner413: Are you fully committed to Christ?

gracerunner413: Are you fully committed to Christ?: Are you fully committed to Christ? "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength a...

Are you fully committed to Christ?

Are you fully committed to Christ?

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind."  Luke 10:27

What makes a winner?  Is it being first?  A trophy or a medal?  I believe a true winner is the person that shows courage, determination and commitment in their pursuit of a goal, not stopping until they have achieved it, and upon achieving it, giving the glory to God.   Not quite the Mirriam Webster definition but one fitting of a Christian athlete. No matter what sport you participate in, by doing it for Christ, you can be a member of "God's" team "whatever you do, do all to the glory of God"  1 Corinthians 10:31.  There are no bench warmers on this team and no second string players.  Through Christ, we all have the power and strength we need to accomplish the job He has called us to.  

Gaining this victory requires commitment.  True commitment requires a love for something large enough to justify sacrifice.  And there is no sacrifice we can offer that compares to the sacrifice of Jesus. "This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." 1 John 4:10.

God is looking for those who are fully committed to Him, who truly love Him.  We do our best to train our physical bodies.  We arrive early for practice and leave late.   We run in the rain, cold, heat and wind. In our drive for excellence, we can sometimes lose sight of Christ and focus on our goals, all the while ignoring our motives.  Our plans and goals will fail every time.  It's when we follow His goals and plans for us that we achieve true victory. And when we truly love Him with all our heart, soul, strength and mind, with hands held high, we can give Him the glory knowing with absolute certainty that victory is only achieved through Him.   And what a witness you will be to the other team!!!

Are there some things competing with your commitment to the Lord?  Vain ambition?  Selfish pride?  Hurtful habits?   Lay it all down and meet Him at the foot of the cross.  That's where the race begins.

Heavenly Father, thank you for putting us on the winning team.  We pray that we put you first in all we say and do bringing honor and glory to your name.  May we lead others to you through this Lord.    In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.

Happy Running!!!

gracerunner413: Good character

gracerunner413: Good character: Good Character "The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out."  Proverbs 10:9 If you ...

Good character

Good Character

"The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out."  Proverbs 10:9

If you were on a reality show with the cameras rolling for all the world to see, would you change some things?   Maybe the way you spoke to your children or your spouse?  Or maybe the way you treat the lady at the coffee shop who doesn't seem to be in the same hurry you are every day?  Abraham Lincoln once said that, "Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow.  The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing."

A person's character is the whole sum of their thoughts, desires, intentions and actions.  It's very reassuring to  know that one incident doesn't determine your character.  Can I get an Amen?!!!    It's the sum of what you do with your whole life.  Getting mad about McDonald's messing up your order (for the third time) doesn't mean you're doomed with an impatient or mean character.  It just means you're human.  Ok, you can laugh now... we've all done it. 

King David was a man of good character although he sinned on occasion, just like the rest of us. Daniel was also a man of good character who "refused to eat the king's meat."  These men had two different personalities but one thing in common that makes for good character-they both loved the Lord with all their heart and were determined to serve Him with all they had.

It's the Lord’s purpose to develop character within all of us just as He did for David and Daniel.  Proverbs 17:3 says,  “The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart”   As silver and gold are refined by fire so are our hearts. Tests and trials, though painful, will draw us closer to Jesus and His presence will shape our character “we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope” Romans 5:3-4 . 

You can be certain that whatever you are going through right now is either shaping, testing or showing your character.  Titus 2:7-8 says, "In everything set them an example by doing what is good.  In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may not be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us."  If the person you are in private is not the same person the world sees, pray that God will shape your character and make you into the person He needs you to be.  

Heavenly Father, thank you for the tests and trials that shape us.  May our character reflect your presence in our lives.  May we show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech as we strive to be more Christlike bringing others to you through our actions.  In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.  

Happy Running!!!!

gracerunner413: A Lasting Tribute

gracerunner413: A Lasting Tribute: A Lasting Tribute "Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.  B...

A Lasting Tribute

A Lasting Tribute

"Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.  But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."  Romans 5:7-8

The story is told of a traveler who looked for unusual things in the cities he visited.  During a tour of a town one day, he was attracted by a remarkable spire over a public building.  Turning to see it better, he noticed, about two-thirds of the way up, a stone figure of a lamb on the wall.  The man stopped a passerby, to ask if there was some significance to the lamb's stone replica.  Told that it marked the place from where a workman lost his balance and fell while the building was under construction, the traveler inquired, "Was he killed?" "No" said the local resident, "it was a miracle".   When his friends hurried down, expecting to find the mangled body on the pavement, there he was, shaken and badly bruised, but with hardly a bone broken.  It happened that several lambs were on their way to slaughter, and as the mason fell, he landed on the back of one of them.  The lamb was killed, of course, but his soft body broke the mason's fall and saved his life.  The builder was so impressed with the miracle that he had a stone lamb placed there as a lasting tribute.
                                                                                                                                    -Robert E. Coleman

Do you remember where you were when Jesus rescued you?  When the Lamb of God saved you from the fall?  Not only did He die for us while we were still sinners,  He met us at the place where we were lost.  He found us...and then with the love only Jesus could have, paid the ultimate price for our salvation-death on a cross.  Like the builder in the story, we should be so impressed with that miracle that we live our lives as a lasting tribute for all the world to see.... running the race every day to glorify Him!!!

"When he saw Jesus passing by, he said "Look, the Lamb of God!""  John 1:36

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your pure and spotless Lamb to die on a cross for us. While we were still sinners, You loved us enough to provide the miracle of salvation to us.  Thank you Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins through your sacrifice.  May we forever live our lives as a lasting tribute to you.  In your name we pray Jesus, Amen.  

Happy Running!!

gracerunner413: This too Shall Pass

gracerunner413: This too Shall Pass: This too Shall Pass "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we ...

This too Shall Pass

This too Shall Pass

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen in temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."  2 Corinthians 4:17-18

Did you know the exact phrase, "this too shall pass" is not actually in the bible?  Maybe you did but I didn't. My grandmother said it, my mother says it and I say it.   According to ask.com, Jewish folklore often describes Solomon as giving or receiving the phrase.  As it was in my family, the phrase was simply passed down over time from one generation to the next.  The phrase also appears in the works of Persian Sufi poet, Attar of Nishapur. He records the fable of a powerful king who asked assembled wise men to create a ring that would make him happy when he was sad, and sad when he was happy  After deliberation the men handed him a simple ring with the words "This too will pass" etched on it.  

I was looking at my children last night, watching them laugh, welling up with such an intense love that almost brought me to tears.  How I longed for them to be little again.  "This too shall pass," I thought. Ah....the phrase that can turn happiness to sadness.  I think of that often as I yearn to capture every moment and store it away for when this time is no more.  And then I awoke to the troubles of the day, the pain in my body from overtraining and the doubts that came with it. "This too shall pass, " I reminded myself.  God's will be done.  And, in that moment, the sadness turned to happiness.  

No matter what is going on in your life, you can be certain of one thing.  Time does not stand still for any of us.  You will get older and your circumstances will change for better or for worse.   And life will remind you that most of these things are out of your control.  Thank God that one thing is for certain though, "For our light and monetary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory,"  and 1 John 2:17, tells us that" The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God will live forever."  

God never promised us an easy life, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world.",  John 16:33.   But He did promise to be with us through it all, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  Matthew 28:20.  

As you live your life today and every day, remember "this too shall pass."  In the good times, rejoice.  In the hard times, be patient in faith knowing that God is with you always, to the very end of the age.  

Heavenly Father, thank you for the times of happiness in our lives when we can praise you for your wonders. And thank you for the times of tests and trials when we can praise you for your presence.  Thank you mostly for being with us through it all. In your precious name Jesus, Amen.   

Happy Running!!!

Members of TEAM 413 – GRACERUNNER MINISTRIES, INC. are raising funds to provide free Ultrasounds to women experiencing un-planned or crisis pregnancies in Pulaski County by completing the 100 mile Prairie Spirit Trail 100 & 50 Mile Ultra Races on Saturday, March 29, 2014 in Ottawa Kansas. Melissa and her teammates will endeavor to complete the 100-mile Ultra Race along the Prairie Spirit Trail within the 30 hour cutoff time.
Please support them.
Sponsor Team 413 at
gracerunner413.blogspot.com
or call 573-433-6684 or 573-774-4992. All money raised will go towards training volunteer technicians and ultrasound maintenance at the Free Women’s Center.
The Free Women’s Center empowers as many individuals as possible to make healthy life choices consistent with the intrinsic value of human life. The Center offers free and confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, prenatal education, and financial & material assistance. Learn more at www.supportmyfwc.com.

Free Women's Center: Support Pulaski County Pro-Life Crisis Pregnancy Center

gracerunner413: I will not be Moved

gracerunner413: I will not be Moved: I will not be Moved He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved."Psalm 62:2 Severa...

I will not be Moved

I will not be Moved

He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved."Psalm 62:2

Several years ago, I had an accident that nearly split my head open.  I hit the sharp corner of our deck so hard you could see the bone.  Hit it right between the eyes.  There was a lot of blood and damage I could tell.   At the emergency room, the doctor told me that this wound could not be stitched up and that it would require plastic surgery.  I remember laying there and asking him, "so does that mean I can't run tomorrow?"  To which he replied, "What is it with you runners?!!"

I explained to him that I had a marathon in three weeks that I needed to be at (told him about TEAM 413 and why I needed to run).  The look on his face told me he didn't understand.   I don't think I have ever sunk into depression as quickly as I did that day.  My face looked horrible and I had no way to blow off steam. I wasn't completely "sold out" to God then so the devil was quick to grab a foothold.  

It took several more days to get the appointment.   The plastic surgeon did the best he could and told me that I could run in a week.  I would have to wear a hat and sunscreen for a year and apply cream on it for just as long to minimize scarring.  That week was really hard for me.  I would take my bible and walk around the house (back and forth, back and forth) reading, praying and searching for peace.  That's what it took, I guess, for God to get my full attention.  

When I finally got to run again, it was like Christmas!  Slow and steady but I was moving.  I realized that, during that time, I had grown so much closer to God. Spending so much time with Him formed an intimate bond between us. A bond that grows stronger with every test, trial and moment spent in His presence.  That experience turned out to be a blessing.  A time I could look back on and remember that I wasn't alone and I never would be again.   

By God's grace, I finished that race and went on to run many more.  My head healed eventually.  The years have faded the scars and life goes on.  As I felt His presence comforting me through the pain and doubt, I could almost feel His hand pulling me out of the darkness. I vowed then to tell the world of the wonderful thing He did for me.  He continues to work through my life, just as He did then, and I continue to tell of the wonderful things He has done. Sometimes there just aren't enough words to describe it!!

What has he done for you?  Maybe you're the one walking through the darkness right now?  Find peace in the promise of Psalm 18:28 which says, "You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light."  and Psalm 37:24 which says, "though he will stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand."  You will stumble, that's for sure.  You will fall, more than once.  But, through Christ, the darkness will turn to light and you will find peace.  Just grab hold of His hand. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for your presence in our lives.  Thank you for your comfort in the midst of our tests and trials.  And thank you for working all things for our good.  In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.  

I will stumble, I will fall down

But I will not be moved

I will make mistakes

I will face heartache

But I will not be moved

On Christ, the Solid Rock, I stand

All other ground is sinking sand

I will not be moved.

                -Natalie Grant

gracerunner413: The Widow's Mite

gracerunner413: The Widow's Mite: The Widow's Mite "While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people putting their gifts into the collection bo...

The Widow's Mite

The Widow's Mite

"While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people putting their gifts into the collection box.  Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two pennies.  "I assure you, " he said, this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them.  For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.""  Luke 21:1-4

You may have heard the poor widow's story referred to as the "widow's mite." The coins the widow dropped into the offering box were actually two "mites".  Back in those days, a mite was the least valuable coin used.  There's debate on what the offering would be worth today but it doesn't really matter, all we need to know is that it was all she had.   We can be sure that  it wasn't worth much especially compared to the gifts the "rich people" were offering.  She gave a gift worthless in the eyes of most but to Jesus it was priceless.  You see He wasn't looking at the monetary value of her sacrifice, He was looking at her heart.... her selfless giving.  She must have known that her contribution could not make a difference.  That didn't matter to her though.  She loved Jesus so much she was compelled to give everything she had to Him.

It must have taken an extraordinary amount of faith to pick up those coins and begin the journey to the temple.  Did she wonder how she would eat tomorrow?  Did she worry about how her needs would be met?  I'd like to believe that her heart was so full of love and faith that it didn't matter. Perhaps she kept repeating God's promises as she made her way to the temple.  Or maybe she even sang them,  "Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:22,  or Isaiah 41:10 "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

God sees everything we do, no matter how small it may seem.  It may be nothing more than a smile, a silent prayer for someone in need,  a tear shed for a hurting friend or an unnoticed act of love and kindness.  God sees it all!  Giving all we have isn't limited to money, it's a gift of our time and talents too, a sacrifice of self (Romans 12:1).  To give all we have means giving to a point beyond convenience or comfort for a reward we will never see this side of Heaven.  So give all you have with all your heart.  That's a priceless offering.

It's not what we have to offer that counts but the love with which we give it!!!!

"Offering"

Magnificent Holy Father
I stand in awe of all I see
Of all the things You have created
But still You choose to think of me
Who am I that You should suffer
Your very life to set me free
The only thing that I can give You
Is the life You gave to me

This is my offering, dear Lord
This is my offering to You, God
And I will give You my life
For it's all I have to give
Because You gave Your life for me
I stand before You at this alter
So many have given You more
I may not have much I can offer
Yet what I have is truly Yours

This is my offering...
-Third Day

Heavenly Father, I pray that our love for You would be so great that we would selflessly give all that we have if you asked it of us.  And faith, Lord I pray that we would all have the faith to know that you will meet our needs.  Please strengthen us Lord and uphold us with your righteous right hand.  In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.

Happy Running!!

gracerunner413: Come to Me

gracerunner413: Come to Me: Come to Me “Come to me,  all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.     Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,  for ...

Come to Me

Come to Me

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  Matthew 11:28-30

I don't know about you but rest sounds really good to me today.  This life can move at such a fast pace that being worn out and burning the candle at both ends seems to be the new norm.  Just ask someone how they're doing and the response is often, "Busy!"  Let's face it.  We're all busy.  Between keeping the house and yard work done, working, taking care of the kids and training for a race, where does that leave God?   What place is he on your "to do" list?

The first thing he tells us to do is "come to me all you who are weary and heavy burdened."  Boy if I heard that announcement on a loud speaker, I'd know immediately He was talking to me.  They wouldn't even have to announce me by name.  Weary?  That's me.  Heavy burdened?  Oh yeah.  How about you?  Would you think this announcement and calling was for you?  Would you come running?  Or would you finish your project first?  Scratch off number two on that list?  

Next, he offers to take our yokes.  If you're unfamiliar with a yoke, it is described as a heavy wooden harness that is placed over the neck of one or more oxen to help them pull heavy farm equipment or wagons. It allowed them to pull an extraordinary amount of weight they couldn't have pulled without it.    Our "heavy yoke" is anything that is weighing us down (guilt, stress, burdens).  How awesome that he offers to trade that yoke for His easy yoke.   See why He wants us to rest? He knows we need it.  

After we take that easy yoke, He tells us to learn from Him.  He knows it's hard to learn when our load is heavy.  It's hard to even concentrate.   He lightens it first so we can give him our full attention as the teacher. He then tells us to learn from Him.  As the student, we have to give him our complete trust as He teaches us His ways, to be gentle and humble in heart.   

Jesus knows that we need rest.  It helps us to focus on Him by turning off the world and tuning in to God...forgetting that "to do" list and remembering the "what He's done for me" list.   Take him up on His offer as often as you can (I would suggest daily) and give Him your heavy burdens and yoke.  In exchange, He will give you the rest your soul so desires.  

Heavenly Father, thank you for your promise of rest when the burdens of this world get too much to bear.  Help me to not be so busy as to forget that you are the number one priority in my life and that Your teachings are greater than any information I could be searching for on google.  In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.  

Happy running!!

Rest, replenish, for your fight is hard.-Lisa Schwandt

gracerunner413: Unanswered Prayers

gracerunner413: Unanswered Prayers: Unanswered Prayers "And we can be confident that He will listen to us whenever we ask Him for anything in line with His will.  And i...