FLW SAMC 10k

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."1 Thessalonians 5:11

On Saturday, May 30, 2015, many of the members of the Pulaski County Gracerunner Project joined together to run the SAMC 10k at Gerlach Field in Ft. Leonard Wood, MO. And what a great day to run! The race was set to begin at 6:30 a.m. but started late (which allowed us to take funny pictures). With a bit of drizzle to keep the humidity down and cool temperatures, it was perfect weather to run 6.2 miles with friends (and it was a plus to join the young soldiers)!

And the best part about doing that was the opportunity it gave to encourage one another, to lift each other up and help everyone to achieve their goals with the help of a friend. For four of the members, this was to be their first 10k and the very first race ever for three of them. Praise God, we all finished as the ones to cross the finish line first went back to help the others ensuring a great time for everyone. Can't wait for the next one! And, yes, the four said they would do it again;). Great race FLW SAMC! Thanks for the free race photos and the great post race snacks.

God was so good to give us friends we call family to help us along the way. Whether it's a race or a difficult time we are going through, friends are the ones we can count on to encourage and build us up as we do the same for them. Oh praise God for friendship!!

The before picture

Misti Noah, Darla Liverpool and Virginia Schnabel 

Randy Holtmeyer off to a fast pace!

Off to a great start!

The after picture

Luke Morrison coming in first!

Congratulating Heather and Hope on their first 10k finish.

Matthew Morrison completed his first 10k this day. 

Many members, including Sarah Anderson won age group medals

Heather Shaw and Hope Scott finishing with Sherry Wilson alongside to encourage them!!

Luke Morrison, won the race with a time of 39:27. He's only 14 and beat everyone!!

Luke finishing with his mother Jackie, her first 10k finish!

Little Matthew Morrison coming down the home stretch

Some of the troops getting ready to run

Here in your Presence

"The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." Exodus 33:14

I honestly cannot remember the last time I took a "rest day" and by Saturday night, I was certainly feeling it. After a morning race with slower times and unpleasant muscle fatigue, I had to admit that I was physically drained. While I know the value of allowing my body to heal itself, recovery seems to be the hardest part of training. I forget too often that rest accomplishes much more than over training can.

My prayer before drifting off to sleep was that God would still my mind, heal my body and fill me with peace in the morning. As the sun began to rise and my eyes opened, this melody played in my head, "Here in your presence, all things are new. Here in your presence, everything bows before you." God's presence was real and I was at peace. Only you Lord, only You, can grant the serenity I need. Psalm 116:7 says, "Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you.” He has surely been good to me I thought as I smiled and drifted back to sleep for an extra hour before church.

Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, tired or anxious today? It may be physical, emotional or a spiritual fatigue you're experiencing. Whatever the cause, the solution can be found in simply resting in His Presence. Will you allow Him to restore you today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you have given us. Thank you for keeping our hands and bodies busy serving you and sharing your love with others Lord. Help us to remember that we need to make time to rest in you that we might be better strengthened to do those things you have called us to do. Give us the rest we need today Lord. Surround us with your presence. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Here in Your Presence - New Life Worship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbtCJU2-KpI

Good to be alive

"Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12

It's not surprising that people, when faced with death, reevaluate their lives-the things they thought were important don't seem to matter much and time becomes something of more value than gold. Living life to the fullest means making every moment count. Helene Neville is a 54 year old woman who knows a lot about the value of time. She was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma, a form of cancer that affects the immune system, in 1993.

Five years after being diagnosed, and after three brain surgeries and numerous rounds of radiation and chemotherapy, she signed up for her first marathon. Finishing the marathon, she said, was a means to prove her tenacity against the disease. That was 1998 and, following her remission the next year, she went on to complete 24 more marathons and is now nearing the final leg of a coast-to-coast run, a journey that began in 2010 (completing one section of distance at a time). She has said that her main mission is to inspire others to "rethink the impossible." Along the way, she makes pit stops to share her story and inspire others to make the most of the time God has given them saying, "I set out to deliver happiness and hope on foot,”

Ephesians 5:15-16 reminds us, "be careful how you walk... making the most of your time," Wouldn't it be wise then if we all lived our lives valuing each second, minute, hour and day that God has given us? Today is a gift and time is a treasure. What will you do with your time today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for every moment you bless us with. May we make the most of our time by inspiring others to follow you and live each day to the fullest. May we not take one single day for granted Lord and live like there's no tomorrow. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Good to be alive - Jason Gray

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9K8-9mXjU8o

http://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/cancer-survivor-running-perimeter-of-us

Be consistent

"But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people." Ephesians 5:3

If you were following the news about last month's Boston Marathon, you may have heard about Mike Rossi, the Pennsylvania father who allowed his children to miss three days of classes to attend the race. Upon receiving a letter from the school principal, he posted a response that went viral very quickly outlining the educational value of the trip. His new found fame brought him accolades from other runners that supported his decision. Any good that he had done though was quickly overshadowed by scrutiny.

It was found that his qualifying time that got him into the Boston Marathon was inconsistent with all of his other available race results arousing suspicions that Rossi might have cheated. The bible has a lot to say about being consistent in our behavior as well. 1 Corinthians 15:58 tells us to, "be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" It's only by being constant, committed and anchored in our faith that we can avoid any behavior that might bring even a hint "of any kind of impurity" in our lives. 

We might never know whether Rossi acted improperly but one thing is certain, any action that gives even a suggestion of corruption is improper for God's holy people and is to be avoided if we are going to stay "always abounding in the work of the Lord."

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of forgiveness when we have strayed from doing the things we know are right. If there is any of us today with even a hint of sexual immorality, any kind of impurity or greed, let us turn from our ways, repent of our sins and work diligently at being steadfast and immovable. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

I will not be moved - Natalie Grant

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTeQdLKiRg8

The Maker

"He is the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them-- he remains faithful forever." Psalm 146:6

While running this morning I was, once again, in awe of God's magnificent creations. As I traveled down the gravel road, I listened to the birds singing while surveying the open fields around me. Wildflowers were blooming and the cattle were fervently devouring the tall green grass. Ah... life is good and I thought how wonderful it was to be able to meet with the Maker of it all each and every day. 

Have you ever heard the term, meet your maker? The Urban Dictionary defines it as: the Christian belief that when we die, we are called to account for our lives before God. So if I say I'm "ready to meet my maker", I mean that I am ready to give God an accounting of my life; I am ready to die." The question then is this... are you ready to meet your maker? Are you 100% certain of where you will spend eternity? 1 John 5:13 says, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life."

 And just what is written? "By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit." (1 John 4:13). We can know, without a doubt then, that we will meet the Maker one day if we have chosen now to follow Jesus. Have you made that decision?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of eternal life that you have promised to all those that believe and choose to follow you now. If there is anyone who hasn't made that decision, I pray that today is the day they choose to abide in you and know for certain where they will spend eternity. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

The Maker - Chris August

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

If you're ready to make the decision to follow Jesus today, simply say this prayer: Lord, I know I am a sinner in need of salvation. I believe you are the Son of God and I accept you into my heart today. Forgive me of my sins and dwell in my heart forever. It's in your precious name I pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Gracerunner Journey 2015 - Dream Big

"Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21

On Memorial Day weekend, 2015, 17 members of TEAM 413, the world's largest ministry of endurance athletes, gathered at the Hills of Lone Star in Celina, TX to participate in an 80 hour nonstop relay to raise support and awareness for the group. By God's grace, we ran 943.08 miles and logged hundreds more as many other members throughout the nation ran the race virtually with the same goal in mind.... to dream big and trust God.

True to the greatness of our God, each and every one of the participants not only reached their goal but surpassed it. The bible tells us that God is able to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think through his mighty power that is at work within us. Did you get that? His power is working in us! All glory to God, I was a witness to that power as I saw one member complete more than 50 miles in this period having never run more than 20 miles in one week! And saw yet another walk 48 miles in 3 days all the while battling severe pain, and another run almost 39 miles having never run more than 6 miles in a week before! Talk about the power at work within us. It made me think that perhaps we aren't accomplishing big things for the Kingdom because we forget how big our God is? And just how powerful He is? Psalm 147:5 tells us, "Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; " and Luke 1:37 says, "For nothing will be impossible with God.”

With unlimited abundant power, is there anything impossible for God? The resounding answer is No... nothing, absolutely nothing. If you allow God to dream it for you, his power can work in you to achieve it. The question is though, will you attempt it? Will you trust Him to do great things through you?

Heavenly Father, thank you for all your blessings you have given us. Thank you for the unique skills and talents you have given each and every one of us to be used to bring you glory and to be a witness to others. Help us to remember that through you alone and your mighty power, we are able to achieve infinitely more than we could ever dream possible. Help us to dare to dream big things, inspire others to do the same and bring glory to your name in all we do. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Dream for you - Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8nsJZx8eWw

Rain or shine, night or day, the relay went on

More members doing big things around the nation

This group dreamed big and accomplished more than they thought possible! Throughout the nation, more than 1000 additional miles were logged and countless people inspired to get moving and make a difference. 

Thank You

Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”Psalm 82:3-4

Throughout the history of the United States, countless brave soldiers have fought and given their lives to grant our freedom and to maintain it. From the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Vietnam and the Korean wars to the war on terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan, they have battled to keep us The Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. 

In 2004, George W. Bush spoke these words, "Today, all who wear the uniform of the United States are serving at a crucial hour in history, and each has answered a great call to serve our Nation on the front lines of freedom. As we continue to fight terrorism and promote peace and freedom-, let us pray for the safety and strength of our troops, for God's blessing on them and their families, and for those who have lost loved ones. On this Memorial Day, we honor all of our fallen soldiers, their commitment to our country, and their legacy of patriotism and sacrifice. By giving their lives in the cause of freedom, these heroes have protected and inspired all Americans."

So today may we remember those selfless individuals who gave their lives that we might be called One Nation under God. And may we honor their memory by keeping Him in our schools, our workplaces, our federal institutions and our homes that their sacrifice might not have been in vain.

Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us to live in a country where we are still free to worship. Help us to remember that, it is because of our military men and women that we can enjoy such freedoms. Today and every day, we ask that you bless them and keep them safe from harm as we honor the memory of those who gave their lives. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Proud to be an American - Lee Greenwood

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ox4IRQVGsBU

Wise friends

"Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts." Colossians 3:16

Have you ever heard the saying that running is cheaper than therapy? I would certainly have to agree with that. Getting out and getting fresh air most times gives a person the new outlook and insight they need to view their problems differently. And for those bigger problems... a group run is almost always the cure. For one reason or another, runners are more open with each other than they are with other people. Perhaps it's the knowledge that there is a shared interest or the lack of distractions while checking off the miles. Whatever the reason, the same is true with a group of Christian runners with one exception-our first love is Christ, running is just a plus.

The bible instructs us to teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. You don't have to go for a run to do that. Just find ways to spend time with fellow believers. Proverbs 19:20 reminds us to, "Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future." Friendships are important and the advice of a wise friend is certainly cheaper than therapy whether given on the run, at lunch, while walking in the park or just meeting for coffee.

C.S. Lewis wrote, "The next best thing to being wise oneself is to live in a circle of those who are." Oh praise God for wise friends, It would be wise for us to spend time with them more often, don't you think?

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us friends. They are such a blessing to help us through this life. They lift us up, counsel us and admonish us when needed. Help us to never take that for granted and to strive to make time for one another regularly,  that we might share each other's burdens, lighten one another's load and teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom that you have given us. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Lean on me - DC Talk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysLvmPCE9KA&list=RDysLvmPCE9KA

American Soldier

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." John 15:13

In President Harry S. Truman's address before a joint session of Congress on April 16, 1945, he said this, "Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices. Because of these sacrifices, the dawn of justice and freedom throughout the world slowly casts its gleam across the horizon."

As we enter into the Memorial Day weekend, let us not forget the sacrifice of the brave men and women that fought to give us the freedom that, too often, we take for granted. Jesus said that there is no greater love than this... that a man lay down his for life for his friends. There is perhaps no other group of people in this world more willing to do that than the American Soldier. To every one of you, past and present, thank you. Thank you for your service, for your heart to serve and for allowing me and millions of other Americans to live in a country where we are free to worship the greatest example of love, Jesus Christ.

As President Truman closed his speech with these words, may we all pray the same,.... "At this moment, I have in my heart a prayer. As I have assumed my heavy duties, I humbly pray Almighty God, in the words of King Solomon:"Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad; for who is able to judge this thy so great a people? I ask only to be a good and faithful servant of my Lord and my people."

Heavenly Father, thank you for making the American soldier, Thank you for the love you placed in their hearts to serve and for their willingness to lay down their lives for their friends and their fellow Americans. For their desire to defend the freedom we enjoy to worship, I pray that you would bless them. May we remember the sacrifice of all those who fought to make us the "land of the free and the home of the brave." May God bless America today and every day to come. And may you especially bless the American Soldier, each and every one of them. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

American Soldier - Toby Keith

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

No such thing as impossible

"Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26

Did you know that before 1966 it was generally believed that women were physiologically unable to run long distances... and certainly never able to run a marathon? In fact, women's running shoes were not even made then and the longest sanctioned race for women was only one and a half miles. Roberta Gibbs, then in her early twenties, was denied entry into the Boston Marathon because women "just can't run that far". She ran in disguise anyway and crossed the finish with an unofficial time of 3 hours and 21 minutes. My, how things have changed. In the 2014 Boston Marathon, 45 percent of the finishers were female.

How many great things have we not accomplished simply because we think they are impossible? Because we listen to what we are told we are not capable of? One person can't change the world. You will never be able to break that habit. My marriage cannot be fixed. I will never be the person God wants me to be. There is no cure for my disease. Is there a reason to continue? There are millions of things that the world says is impossible but Jesus said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Did you get that? Jesus said ALL.

In Jeremiah 32:27, God said, ""I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?" Well, is there? Is there something you are dealing with that you can't change or think will never change? Is there a mountain in your way that you can't cross? Trust and believe that there is nothing too hard for God and no such thing as impossible for those that believe.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being a God of infinite strength, power and love.Thank you for working through us to accomplish things that the world believes is impossible. I pray that you would flatten those mountains in our way today, Lord, that you would heal hopeless marriages, heal those suffering of diseases and heal the broken hearts of your believers. Help us to accomplish great things in your name Lord because there is truly no such thing as impossible when you are in control. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

No such thing as impossible - Building 429

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zegqjuz4Cro&list=RDzegqjuz4Cro

Words have power

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue and those who love it will eat its fruits." Proverbs 18:21

To my dismay, I woke very early Saturday morning to a sore throat and a hoarse voice. Going back to bed was not an option as we were scheduled to set up the TEAM 413 booth at the finish line of the Joplin Memorial Half and meet for prerace prayer (all before 6am). Then off to the start line we would go. Knowing it would be a very long day, I concentrated on choosing my words wisely (and saving my voice). That was something, I thought, that I should be more careful to do every day. Ecclesiastes 5:2 actually tells us to, "Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word... let your words be few."

Being forced to let my words be few reminded me of their importance. They are not something to be absentmindedly tossed around. God gave us words and a voice to sing praises to His name and to lift up our neighbors. God spoke the world and everything in it into being with the power of His words. And the bible says that our words have the power of life and death. We can use them to build someone up or to tear them down. It's no wonder then that we are instructed to neither be reckless nor hurried with them. 

Wouldn't it be great if we were all more careful with our words? If we let them be few and if we used them only to edify and glorify? Imagine the great things we could accomplish! Our words have power. How will you use yours today? 

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us a voice to sing praises to you. Thank you for giving us words to be used to lift one another up and give them healing. Father, please help us to choose our words carefully, to always speak them out of love and to remember that we have the power, through our words, to build up or tear down. May we always be a person that speaks pleasant words that are sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Words - Hawk Nelson

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

Joplin Memorial Half 2015

"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand." John 10:27-28

On May 22, 2011 an F-5 tornado tore through Joplin destroying many homes, businesses, and claiming 161 lives. The Joplin Memorial Half Marathon was designed as a way to remember the lost and to help rebuild what was taken away. A portion of the proceeds from this race each year goes into the memorial and rebuilding efforts. That's certainly not the only reason to run the race though. From start to finish, this is one fantastic event.

The course has a few hills but is actually quite flat by Missouri standards. With ample aid stations, friendly volunteers and many extras, there was nothing left to think about but getting to mile 13.1 and celebrating at the post race party with entertainment and the best fire baked pizza on the face of the earth. It was truly a race that, God willing, I will do again and again (as said everyone else I spoke to).

For the first and last mile of the Joplin Memorial Half course, there are 161 banners on display with the name of each victim of the twister listed. In the excitement of the race, I didn't really notice the ones in the first mile. It seems I was, like many of the other runners around me, too intent on getting up to pace quickly, checking my garmin and moving up in the pack. However, as the race went on and there were more reminders of the reason this competition was formed, I found myself ever more thankful for a God that knows me by name just as he knew every person who died on that fateful day in Joplin.

John 10:14 says, "I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me" and Psalm 139:2 tells us that, "You know when I sit and when I rise". In the sea of runners that surrounded me, I couldn't possibly even remember each of of their names much less what they do. But God knows them all, each one by name. What a comforting thought that was as I ran the last mile, paying special attention this time to each banner and each name representing a life lost. But to those who knew Jesus also representing a new life gained.

The 161 names were a tragic reminder that each day is a blessing, today is a gift and tomorrow is not guaranteed. No, there is not one thing about life that is certain but this... to all those that know and follow Christ, there is eternal life waiting for them. Do you know Him?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the ability to run the good race. You have blessed us beyond measure with the gift of another day. I pray that if there is one that does not know you or whether they can claim the prize of eternal life, that they would turn to you today, listen for your voice and run to you as fast as they can. Thank you for knowing each of our names and for loving us so much that you would care to know when we sit and when we rise. May we live our lives knowing that there might not be a tomorrow. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

He knows my name - Tommy Walker

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z70aTPrx72M

Will you enter?

"When the master of the house has locked the door, it will be too late. You will stand outside knocking and pleading, 'Lord, open the door for us!' But he will reply, 'I don't know you or where you come from." Luke 13:25

Have you ever wanted to sign up for a race but kept putting it off? Perhaps you were waiting for the right time? Maybe you were waiting for a special discount or to see whether it would fit into your busy schedule? And when you finally decided to sign up were denied entry because the registration had closed? It can be a very disappointing and regretful feeling to know that, because of indecision, the door was shut... along with the last chance to enter. Unfortunately, for those who have not made the decision to follow Jesus, the door to Salvation will not stay open forever either.

In Luke 13;24, Jesus said, "Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to." What does it take to enter that narrow door? A firm belief in Christ and a daily effort to follow him whether it's convenient, costly or difficult. If you're thinking that you will make that decision when the time is right or when it fits into your lifestyle or hectic calendar, let me remind you that no one knows the hour or day when Jesus will come and the time for decision making will be over... just like that. You will then either be able to go in or hear the words, "I don't know you or where you come from." When the master of the house has locked the door, it will be too late.

The choice is yours. My prayer is that if you haven't made the decision to follow Christ that you would do so today. You don't need to wait until you are good enough, the time is right or you have your life in order. Jesus wants to meet you where you're at right now. The door is open, will you enter?

Heavenly Father, I pray that if there is anyone who has not made the decision to follow you, that they would do so right now. I pray they wouldn't put it off even one more second. And if they are ready to make that commitment would simply pray, Father I am a sinner in need of forgiveness. I believe in you Lord and in Jesus Christ, your son, who died on the cross for my sins. I ask that you come into my heart and dwell in me and that I faithfully follow you all the days of my life. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Lift up your face - Third Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ij71LWwPt-w&index=16&list=RDTt4G4becsWs

Frog Hill Half Marathon 2014 Slideshow

http://www.smilebox.com/playBlog/4e4449314e4441344d44553d0d0a&blogview=true

Your defining moment

"Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized," Acts 9:17-18

When did you know you were a runner? I mean really know? Perhaps it was after you completed your first 5k or maybe not until sometime later? The point is, there was probably not a defining moment that you can recall when you made the change from non-runner to runner right? If you're like me, you might even say the same about your spiritual conversion. I don't really recall when I became a Christian, it just seemed to happen. For others, they can tell you the instant they knew.... the defining moment when they went from being a sinner to a sinner saved by Grace.

Stories like that make for jaw dropping testimonies don't they? The conversion of Saul of Tarsus definitely qualifies as one of those. He was furiously intent on killing the Lord's disciples. As he neared Damascus on his journey to do that very thing, "a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" (v.3-4). He was immediately struck blind for three days. But the instant the scales fell from his eyes and he could see again, he got up and was baptized. What an amazing story of the redemption power of Jesus. As the bible tells us, Paul (formerly known as Saul) went on to preach the gospel in boldness and power converting people wherever he traveled, at every opportunity. And praise the Lord, his God inspired writings are still changing people today.

It doesn't matter how you came to know Christ. Whether it was a defining moment conversion or a gradual coming to the Lord. What matters is this... what will you do now? Let's tell the world the good things Christ has done for us. If you are a sinner saved by grace, won't you share that? Like Paul, your story has the power to change people today.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your saving grace. Thank you that we can say with boldness that I was lost but now I'm found. Oh Lord, thank you for changing us and for making us your own. Give us the boldness and power Lord to be a witness to the good things you have done for us. Our stories can change people if we are only willing to share them. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Defining Moment - Newsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fF64-zFONzk

He knows

"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet he did not sin." Hebrews 4:15

Most runners buy new shoes based on the recommendations of friends. When we look for advice in this area, we naturally go to those people that we know have "walked in our shoes" so to speak. We have faith in what they tell us because we know they have shared some of the same trials we have. The Bible tells us that Jesus did the same. He was enticed in every way that we are but still didn't sin. So when we are looking for the best direction for our lives, wouldn't it make sense to ask the One who has literally "walked in our shoes?"

And when we are looking to Him to guide us, we need look no further than the Bible. 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that, "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right." Isn't it reassuring to know that the you can rely on every word written in the pages of the Bible? Because every word was inspired by a God that is not unable to empathize with our weaknesses and who was tempted in every way that we are. Who better than to seek then?

Perhaps you have found yourself feeling no one understands you or could possibly know what you're going through? I assure you that Jesus does. He does because he has experienced the same pain, loneliness, uncertainty and feelings of abandonment that you and I have. There is not one thing that we can feel or do that He cannot understand and help us heal from or repent of. Won't you open up your Bible and seek his counsel?

Heavenly Father, thank you for being such a caring God that you would send your son to experience the same trials, troubles and temptations that we do that we might have full confidence that we have a God that can help us through these hard times. Thank you Father for loving us enough to feel our pain and heal our hurts. Remind us to turn to you alone for the advice we are seeking. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

He knows - Jeremy Camp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsccUg4TDd8

Brighter days

"This is the LORD’s doing, and it is wonderful to see. This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:23-24

The sound of the rain Saturday morning woke me long before the alarm was scheduled to go off to attend my son's track meet. As I rose to look outside, the clouds were very dark and threatening. Oh boy, I thought, this day may not go well for the runners. Praying that it would clear up, we started the 90 minute journey, rejoicing as the rain stopped and the clouds slowly began to make way to a hint of a brighter day. The remaining overcast skies made for absolutely perfect running weather. Contrary to my first thought, this day was going to go very well for these runners.

What a reminder to not judge the whole day by the beginning. Too often we can destine our day to fail by the way it starts out. You can't find anything to wear or you spill coffee on your favorite shirt as you head out the door late for work. The kids remind us that we owe money for lunches that must be paid today or you remember that you have a presentation you failed to prepare for... all as you head out the door late for work. Life can be stressful, that is true. But God reminds us that "This is the day the Lord has made." Yes! This very day that might have already started off stressful is the day he created that we might "rejoice and be glad in it."

So take a deep breath and look around. Contrary to your first thought, this day will be amazing. God told us so when He gave this promise, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23). So no matter the clouds that may loom over or around us this morning, let us rejoice for the brighter day ahead!

Heavenly Father, thank you for your mercies that never end and that are new every morning. No matter what we face today Lord, help us to remember that when you are with us, there is always a reason to be joyful. Oh praise you for giving us this day. Whether filled with rain or sunshine, it is the day that you have made and we will rejoice and be glad in it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Move - Mercy Me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OH5FgOICAA

Let's do good

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." Galatians 6:10

Eleven Members of the sousaphone section of the University of Illinois’ marching band, the Marching Illini, recently used their local celebrity for good when they ran the Illinois Marathon 5K while carrying their 35 pound instruments. When asked why, the organizer of the group action that raised $2475 for notes4cancer, Alex Kirkeeng, said “A big part of being in a highly visible group such as the Marching Illini is that you have the power to give back to the community in big ways.” Notes4cancer is a nonprofit ministry that helps children undergoing treatment for cancer through music.

This is a story about people helping people where they are with what they have. These men had no special skills. In fact, only two of the 11 men had ever even run a 5k before but they saw a chance to help. The bible tells us that when we have the opportunity to do good, we should do it.... to all people, especially our fellow Christians. And that's just what they did, they did "good". Alex went on to say that the group is already discussing similar ventures for the future. 

You and I needn't look far for a chance to help someone ourselves. There are opportunities within our own neighborhoods, and within our own families, to do good. Psalm 37:3 reminds us to, "Trust in the LORD and do good." What good will you do today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for providing us with so many blessings. Thank you for giving us each special gifts and talents to help others. You have been so good to us Lord so I pray that we would all search for opportunities to do good to others wherever we may be with whatever we may have. Give us the strength and the wisdom Lord to accomplish your will. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Brother - Needtobreathe

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlxrjo6CmNQ

http://www.notes4cancer.org

http://www.runnersworld.com/fun/sousaphonists-get-down-to-brass-tracks-run-5k-carrying-their-instruments

At the table

"But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. He asked, ‘How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend? The man was speechless." Matthew 22:11-12

At the end of every marathon, there is a table set up with food and beverages, a feast of sorts, for those runners that participated in and finished the race. To gain access, a person would need to be properly dressed so they could be identified as a runner. A tech shirt, running shorts and a bib would do the trick. Anyone not wearing the telltale attire would not be granted access and anyone found inside who didn't belong there would be asked to leave. Matthew 22:1-14 tells the parable of the Wedding Banquet where a feast was also awaiting those wearing the right clothes.  Many were invited to attend but few were "chosen" to gain entrance.

The story goes that the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king arrived, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. Because of this, "the king told the attendants, 'Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (v.13). You see, this man was not appropriately dressed to attend the banquet or eat at the table. Galatians 3:27 describes it this way, "And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes." The wedding clothes picture the righteousness needed to enter God's kingdom. Just like us, the man had received his invitation stating the requirements. He wanted to attend but did not want to "change" to do it. By not accepting Christ, he had no "new clothes" to wear and so was thrown outside into the darkness.

How about you? Have you accepted the invitation? Have you clothed yourself with Christ so that you might gain entrance into the King's banquet (eternal life)? If not, the offer is open to all who will only believe, change and accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Won't you do that today?

Heavenly Father, thank you for preparing such an elaborate banquet for us. How wonderful it will be to celebrate that day when we will attend it. Lord, I pray, that those who have not accepted the invitation would do so before it is too late. Before there is no time left and they are denied entrance. Help us to be clothed in Christ every day that we might draw others to you. And, if there is anyone ready to accept the invitation today, I pray that they would believe in You, accept you as their King, repent of their sins and put on their "new clothes."  It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

At the table - Chris Tomlin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peeqJ1bmT_w

Have you forgotten?

"They forgot the God who saved them, who had done great things in Egypt," Psalm 106:21

In a recent study published in the Journal Memory, it was found that the reason marathon runners might be able to continue to race, time and again, is because they actually forget the pain of the last experience. Of the 62 marathon finishers surveyed immediately after crossing the finish line, the runners described their pain level as 5.5 on a 7-point scale. However, just three months later, when asked to recall the pain of running the race, the runners described their level at an average of only 3.2. The study concluded that, by failing to fully recall the negative effects, runners can continue to run marathons. Talk about a forgetful group. 

The bible tells us of another group of people who would also forget the pain their actions caused and continually return to their old ways... the Israelites. Time and again, the Israelites would be unfaithful in keeping the commandments, be punished for their unfaithfulness, repent of their sins and then do it all over again. They just kept forgetting the pain! Psalm 78:10-11 tells us that, "they did not keep God’s covenant and refused to live by his law. They forgot what he had done, the wonders he had shown them." But aren't we much the same way? When confronted with our sins, we repent for a while and then, like the Israelites, return to our old ways. We feel the pain of our actions, vow to never repeat them, but soon forget as time goes by.

Perhaps, like the Israelites, you have returned to a sin you once repented of too? Praise God, 2 Chronicles 7:14 gives us this promise offered to the Israelites and also to us, "if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

Heavenly Father, thank you for forgiving us of our sins. Let us not be like the Israelites who, time and again, after repenting and being forgiven, continued to return to their old ways. Let us, once and for all, repent of the sin we are struggling with, turn completely from it and have our sin forgiven. Lord we pray that time will never erase the memory of the pain sin causes so that we may always remember and stay faithful to you. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Give us clean hands - Kutless

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDAfRJ7CuFw

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/marathon-runners-forget-the-pain-of-the-last-race/

Words have power

"Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up." Proverbs 12:25

Many times during a race I have struggled to keep going. There probably isn't a runner anywhere that wouldn't say the same thing. And many times, I have been encouraged by a kind word either spoken by a bystander or written on a sign that uplifted me enough to take a few more steps. Words are powerful. They have the power to tear down and destroy or build up and motivate. Rudyard Kipling once wrote, "words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.”

If simple words can inspire someone to finish a race, can you imagine the influence they can have on others to simply make it through their day? The bible tells us that anxiety weighs down the heart but a kind word cheers it up. In a world filled with worry, concern and uncertainty, the odds are very good that, whether you know it or not, you will come into contact with a person experiencing that today. A kind word has the power to release some of that burden and bring a bit of happiness. Like those people along the racecourse, we might never know the effects of our words but let's speak them anyway... every chance we get.

Are you looking for ways to be an encourager today? It may be as simple as complimenting the gas station cashier on her smile, telling the cart pusher what a great job he is doing or remarking to a coworker that they are doing a fabulous job. Wherever we might be today, let us be ready to give a kind word.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the kind words you have spoken to us. Thank you for telling us, in your Word, that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, that we are loved and that we are forgiven. Thank you for calling us your child when the world says we are worthless. Thank you for speaking to us throughout each day through your Holy Spirit motivating us to go on. Help us Lord to be an encourager like this to others today. Give us kind words to say to cheer up an anxious heart. It's in your name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

Save my life - Sidewalk Prophets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r66ZFTltap8

What is "good"?

"We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise." 2 Corinthians 10:12

If you have ever run a race or participated in a competition of any kind, you may have been good enough to receive a trophy. By God's grace, I have received a few myself... but the thing is, every time I have qualified to receive one, it depended not on how fast or "good" I was but by how fast my competition wasn't. When you compete, your finish is dependent on who you race against. In other words, you are measured against the best runner there not a perfect one. The 9 minute mile that got you first place one day might not even qualify you for second place the next week. The trophy and acknowledgment from others can then give us a false sense of how "good" we really are. 

The same is true in our spiritual lives. We don't have to be the best to be first in the eyes of others or ourselves, we simply have to be better than those around us. You might think you are doing really well when you compare yourself to Sally Jones who is in an adulterous relationship or better than Tom Smith who has a problem with pornography. But how good are we really? And by whose standard are we measuring ourselves? Matthew 5:48 says, "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." God demands perfection, not simply being better than others. Setting the standard by any other measure then is "not wise".

By whose standard are you measuring yourself today? Is it by the level the world has set or God's? As followers of Christ, the standard is not reached by simply being "good", we are measured against Him who "is perfect". Let us run the race focused on Christ, imitating his every step, and the ultimate trophy of eternal life.

Heavenly Father, thank you for setting a standard that will never change. How the world views someone as "good" changes constantly. Thank you for being the same yesterday, today and forever. Lord, we know that we will never be perfect this side of Heaven but give us strength to pursue being imitators of you and the goal of perfection all the days of our life. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Ready, Set, Go - Capital Kings
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toCKscre-qE

The right thing

"Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin." James 4:17

Good intentions and thoughts are worthless without action, wouldn't you agree? For instance, you can lay in bed all morning thinking about running or exercising but it will never get done unless you get up, put on your shoes and head out the door. And that healthy eating plan you've been thinking about? It certainly won't start itself. Its only when we put our thoughts into motion that we will see changes. It seems we know what we should do but we have a hard time doing it.... even though it is "the right thing to do". By not doing what we should for our physical bodies, we can reap a host of negative side effects like diabetes, depression and cancer. 

But did you know that when we neglect to do the things God has called us to, we are actually sinning? Sure we know that doing wrong is sin but what about not doing what is right? The bible clearly tells us that "to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him is sin." For instance, we know it is a sin to lie but it is also a sin to know the truth and not tell it. It is a sin to wish harm to someone but it is also a sin to fail to help a person in need. Quite simply, it's a sin to not do what He has called us to do.

Is God calling you to do something today? Maybe it's visiting someone to offer forgiveness or help, or speaking to someone you have been avoiding to offer a kind word? Whatever it is, in the motto of Nike, Just do it! Let's not let another moment pass when we know what the "right thing to do" is and not do it. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many things you have blessed us with today... from the flowers blooming to the warmer days of spring. You have created such a masterpiece for us to see with every new sunrise. With every fresh start of the day, help us to do those things that you have asked of us that we might be healthy both spiritually and physically. May we be a blessing to someone by doing "the right thing." It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Do the right thing - Mandisa

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kt_NL0Eiw3w