Passing through

"We are here for only a moment, visitors and strangers in the land as our ancestors were before us. Our days on earth are like a passing shadow, gone so soon without a trace." 1 Chronicles 29:15

I was blessed to participate in the Run for the Ranch Marathon Saturday. It's a unique race in that, to complete the 26.2 miles, one has to make eight loops around a course crossing a checkpoint each round. Due to its distinctive design, I noticed that I encountered a greater number of runners than I would have on a conventional course, some briefly and some more than once. But regardless of our different speeds and times it took to "pass through" the checkpoint, in one way we were all the same-visitors that would return home after crossing the finish line. The thought reminded me of an old Aboriginal Proverb that says "We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow, to love... and then we return home."

1 Chronicles 29:15 says it this way, "We are here for only a moment, visitors and strangers in the land as our ancestors were before us. Our days on earth are like a passing shadow, gone so soon without a trace." However you say it, life is short and we are merely "running" to our final resting place. Along this journey we will join others making their way through as we are, some for a brief moment, some for years and some for a lifetime. However long that time may be, we should be encouraging, loving and helping one another along the way.

So let us continue to observe, learn and grow in our faith as we love others and encourage them to do the same... "and then we return home."

Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you have given us in the form of friends and acquaintances we meet along our journey that serve to strengthen our faith and love us along the way. May we always be looking for other travelers in need of the same kindness you have shown to us and be willing to help, encourage and lead them on the right path to you. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

www.team413.org

Passin the faith along - Gaither Vocal Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PQE6O4LReY

* The 2015 Run for the Ranch Marathon and Half Marathon was the 16th Annual race that began as a fundraiser in 1999 for the Good Samaritan Boys Ranch and other local charities. Held in Springfield, Mo, it is a fantastic "end of the year" race allowing that one last chance to qualify for Boston (flat and fast course) or end the year with a memorable run with friends. The uniqueness of the course, the most friendly volunteers you could ever find and free race photos make it a race I always add to my calendar. Thank you to OMRR, all the volunteers and the kids from the Boys Ranch for your hospitality. What a day!!

Before the start and ready to go! 

Love my TEAM 413 running buddies!!!

Close to the end with temps nearing 60! My "new" friend Nick, the Methodist Minister, and my "old" dear friend, Michelle, God is good and we were so blessed!!