Azalea Half Marathon

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. " Jeremiah 29:11

Saturday, September 12, was the third annual Azalea Half Marathon and 5k/10k race. And what a beautiful day for running it was with fall like temperatures that were perfect for both runner and spectator. Having run it before, my friends and I knew we were in for some rolling hills and then some bigger ones. And we weren't disappointed. The course was just as we remembered, well almost. At the finish line, in between dancing to YMCA and the other songs playing, we laughed as we all admitted that the hills were a tad bit bigger than we recalled. It seems time has a way of changing things, like our memories, from one year to the next.

But change can be such a wonderful thing. Last year, at this every same race, my dear friend had just suffered miscarriage number four. Not one to question God's plan for her life, she joyfully ran the half marathon and continued to pray. No matter what the future held, she knew one thing for certain. God's plan would be better than anything she could ever imagine, with or without a child. And His plan for her at this years race? To run the 10k so she could return quickly to her new baby and husband. God certainly had plans for her.. but in His time.

I've heard it said, as quoted by Norman Vincent Peale, that "God answers prayer in three ways; yes, no and wait awhile."  You see, not only does God know what is best for us, he also knows when it is best for us. No matter where you are right now and no matter what the answer to your prayers may be, one thing is certain-God has plans for you, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Are you willing to wait for the answer?

Heavenly Father, thank you for knowing what's best for our lives. When your answer to prayer is no or wait, help us to keep the faith knowing that answer means that something much better is in store for us. Help us to remember that your plan for our lives is the perfect one. May we keep our faith and joy while we wait for it to unfold as we continue to trust in You. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org

I know the plans - Morris Chapman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h17U_rOZP80

Luke Morrison took 3rd overall and 2nd in his age group

Having fun!

The new parents

crossing the finish line honored to share the "message"

Sherry Wilson had a great race!

Krystal Hash pushed her stroller and son for 13.1 miles of hills!!
Love this race!!