Outdo yourself this year

"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another." Romans 12:10 BSB

"Ending 2020 with a smooth 3.2 miles... found this gem of a sign..." my friend Sara posted yesterday while out on her run in sunny Florida and meditating on the past year. "Had an opportunity to pray with a neighbor too... may we continue to have opportunities to be light and love with those we meet every day we wake up on this side of the green grass." If you know Sara like I do, you'd know that this is a typical run for her. Stopping to pray with a neighbor? Without hesitation. Looking for opportunities to love others? Always. And wouldn't it be great if having an attitude focused on serving others was our goal for 2021 too? Better yet, with all of us posting the miles we ran in 2020 along with our goals of running more in the new year, wouldn't it be great if everyone's goal was to "outdo" themselves not just in running but in “honoring one another?” 

And you know, when it comes to giving honor to another person, the world teaches us that honor, or great esteem, should be reserved for those people who have earned it in a way the world deems respectful. Perhaps by being a good parent, teacher, activist, employer or even a star athlete? But the Bible teaches us to honor or show respect to people simply because they, like us, were created in God's image, are loved by Him, and are our brothers and sisters in Christ. And we do this by being "devoted to one another in brotherly love," which is the kind of love we show that is genuine, constant and expectant of nothing in return. 

So as you and I thank the Lord for the many blessings bestowed on us in 2020, may our prayer for the new year be for God to grant us innumerable opportunities to be the "light and love" this world so desperately needs to see and feel. Let us "outdo" ourselves in 2021!

Heavenly Father, thank You for another year. Regardless of how the year might have looked to those who don't know You as Savior, believers everywhere saw how You worked it all for their good and for Your glory. Lord we love You and we ask that You stir our hearts to be light and love to a dark world in 2021. Let this be the year that a revival takes place in our nation and around the world. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Kingdom - Kristian Stanfill

No reason to be daunted

"Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." Isaiah 41:10 NLT

In an articled published yesterday by Runner's World Magazine titled "2020 Was a Crazy Running Year...," data from popular workout tracking apps and devices from across the nation was collected and studied. Interestingly enough, the data showed that runners in the United States logged more miles outside than ever before, more people took up running for the first time than ever before, and we runners continued to race (virtually of course) despite the lockdowns and limitations imposed on us as a result of the COVID pandemic. "Runners were undaunted," by the interruption the article said, "With a little creativity, we were able to continue to lace up and reap all the health benefits that running confers."

And you know, while many people are looking for 2021 to be the year things "return to normal," we will probably never experience “normal” again. In fact, many of those runners who were "undaunted" in 2020 are facing the new year with apprehension, fear and dread. Between COVID, the elections, and the unrest and upheaval in our country (and in our world), many people are disheartened and discouraged. But guess what? If you have put your faith in Jesus Christ, you can and should have the peace that surpasses all understanding despite all of it. Why? Because God has promised to be with you, to strengthen you, to help you and to uphold you no matter what you might be facing.

So as you and I look to the new year, may we smile knowing that everything is going to be okay... really okay. Not because the world will be at peace, because it won't be... ever. But because we can have peace in all situations because our God is always with us... even to the end of the age.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for the lessons we learned in 2020 and the resilience and faith we gained as we had to look to You for new ways to do things. Thank You for promising to always be with us and to give us the strength to face anything. Help us to stay encouraged by remembering that through You we are victorious. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

See a Victory

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Be a Role Model

Hello runner friends! 

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series 

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog. Now let's get started by talking about something that a big percentage of runners around the world are talking about right now... New Year's Resolutions, aka the promises people make to themselves to start doing something good or to stop doing something bad on the first day of the year. 

But before we go any further, check out these top Running Resolutions listed by Runner's World Magazine for 2021.

1. Start Running Regularly

2. Diversify Your Diet

3. Set a 5K PR

4. Stay Motivated

5. Qualify for Boston

6. Do Some Yoga (For Real This Time)

7. Run a Trail Race

8. Give Back

How many of those have you already done? If you've done at least one, you're in the perfect position to help someone else. How? By being a role model. Bet you never thought about that did you? Well consider this... people are always watching what you do. Scary thought huh? It can be unless you allow that knowledge to motivate you to not only stay on the right path but to be better every day; thereby inspiring others to improve as well. Striving to be someone others can look up to will keep you motivated and motivate others too!! That's a win-win isn't it??

This is Rebecca's Woohoo Crew Running Group- everyone here had run an at least one marathon and one ultra in 2020, inspiring Rebecca (3rd to left) to do the same 

So when it comes to the power of being a person others look to for inspiration--whether you even realized you were one--check out what Rebecca Ito said inspired her to complete her first ultra marathon on Saturday. It will surely have you considering how your actions affect others. What makes the story even more amazing though, is that Rebecca went from running a half marathon to an ultramarathon in a very short period. Why? Because Rebecca was surrounded by people she looked up to as role models; people that strived to be the best they could be with no idea that they were being watched.

When asked why I was doing a 50K Saturday, my reply was, “Because everyone else did it!” I have watched my amazing friends kill it this year in race after race. I have been with them. I have been behind them. I have watched them. I watched as they did their first marathon and the joy they felt accomplishing such a task. I watched as they completed their first 50K in the worst possible conditions and, again, the joy they felt. Even though I could not participate in those races, I loved seeing them thrive! I also became determined to be a part of their experiences on a deeper level. I wanted to feel what they felt. I wanted to feel more connected to them. This group of women (The WooHoo Crew) have inspired me repeatedly throughout one of the hardest years many have endured. They have pushed me. They have lectured me. They have loved me. I owed it to them to at least try. Also, to my mother who used to ask me, “If everyone else jumped off a bridge, would you do it?," my answer this time is a 

resounding YES!

So there you have it friends... helping others to be better will help you to be better in return. Aspiring to be inspirational will cause others to be inspirational and being encouraging will in turn encourage you! See where I'm going with this? So in 2021, why don't you add "Be a world-changer!" to your list of resolutions? And then strive to change your part of the world in some small way by helping one person at a time. I think you'll be surprised at the benefits and rewards you and those around you will reap.

Happy Running!!!

Choose whom you will serve

"But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.'" Joshua 24:15 NIV

"Everyone complains about 2020." My runner friend, Jill, recently posted. "But really people just like to complain about anything.... 2020 has been such an amazing year of growth. Really...what do you know about yourself if you don't learn how to change and be a better human? Reading my memories.. (I still hate sappy). The past year has been awesome. I couldn’t ask for better new friends... new adventures... new goals... and new habits... that I made the past year." This just goes to show that life is what we make it, right? I mean, this past year has been full of changes and challenges for everyone. But each and everyone of us have had a choice to make amidst those changes and challenges... and that choice was to use them as stepping stones to become better or to complain about them and do nothing—thereby missing one of the greatest opportunities for growth we have ever experienced. 

And you know, when it comes to choices or making decisions when faced with two or more possibilities, there is one choice that every single person will have to make in his or her lifetime... to serve the one true God of the universe or to serve the many false gods of this world. You can't do both as Joshua clearly laid out to the Israelites when he said, "choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living." In other words, just like the Israelites, you must decide whether you will pursue the temporary gods of fame, money, status and other sinful pleasures this world offers or to lay them all aside to follow the Lord. The choice is yours. 

So choose this day whom you will serve my friend. As for me, I, like Joshua, will most definitely, "serve the LORD." There's nothing this world can offer that is greater than what awaits me and every other person who makes the same decision for doing so. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing to love us despite our sinfulness. In return, may we choose to serve You rather than the things of this world. Please cause us to know that this world is passing away and that our choice to follow the temporary things it offers will only lead to eternal separation from You in the end. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Nothing Compares - Third Day

Keep straining forward

"Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, " Philippians 3:12-13 ESV

As I joined my dear friends, Rachel and Jody, for the last couple miles of their 50 mile ultra Saturday, I watched Rachel struggle to breathe as Jody remarked, "Since becoming a runner, It's so much easier for me to understand the analogies to running in the Bible." "I totally agree," I said before turning to Rachel and saying, "Do you need to stop?" "No way," she said shaking her head and holding up her hand in protest as she continued to walk and focus on taking in air. "We are going to make it to the finish line. I didn't come this far to quit now." And you know what? In spite of lingering breathing issues caused by a recent bout with COVID and pneumonia which caused her lungs to start spasming at mile 44 and reduced her to a walk, Rachel pressed on with Jody by her side, determinedly straining to take each breath, and indeed made it to the finish line--giving God all the glory for it. 

And you know, like Jody said, running really does help us understand how similar our Christian walk is to a long-distance race. You see, a runner must be single-mindedly focused on reaching the finish line and purposefully intent on letting nothing stop them if they want to see their goal become a reality. Similarly, the goal of every believer should be to become more like Christ; a goal that must literally consume them to the point of complete obsession. That means we, as believers, must be being willing and ready to strain "forward to what lies ahead" no matter how hard, uncomfortable, painful, strenuous or laboring that might be.

So keep your eyes on the prize my friend. Focus all your energy and passion on being more like Christ and being all that Christ intended you to be. Doing so is the only way to ensure that you will do whatever it takes to reach the finish line and take hold of it; something that I can assure you will be worth every ounce of energy you put forth. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that following You requires our utmost effort, concentration and devotion. Help us to pursue You above everything else and to work to grow closer to You each and every day through prayer, meditation and Bible study. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen, 

Happy Running!!!

 My All - Beckah Shae

The Christmas Gift

“‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with is.)” Matthew 1:23 ESV

As I held my candle up amidst tens of others in the darkened sanctuary of my church and sang the words "Silent night, holy night... all is calm, all is bright" at the Christmas Eve service held last night, I was overwhelmed to the point of tears at the enormity of how great a gift it was to be singing praises to the Savior alongside my sisters and brothers at a time when thousands of churches around the world are closed. But that gift, I thought later, completely paled in comparison to the gift the Lord was preparing to give the world on this very day over 2,000 years ago. It was a gift so big and so amazing that the world could hardly grasp it, yet so small that it could fit into the arms of a mother who had been anxiously awaiting the day we now celebrate as Christmas.

This gift of course was the Son of God born to a virgin and appropriately given the “name Immanuel” because of His choice to be born as a man and live among us. And to think that the greatest Gift you and I could ever receive came in the lowliest of ways reminds us that Jesus is truly “God with us,” - with us in the dirt, poverty and stench of a stable and with us now in the midst of a chaotic, disorderly and rebellious world, continuing to offer the gift of eternal life to anyone who would repent of their sins and accept it. Is that amazing or what?  

So above all else on this blessed day, let us celebrate the Gift we have received that was larger than the universe but small enough to fit in a manger... the Gift that forever changed the world. Merry Christmas!!! God is with us friends!! May that bring you peace today. 

Heavenly Father, thank You giving us your one and only Son who chose to live with us to give us the gift of eternal life that we didn’t deserve and could never earn on our own. Oh Lord if there is someone reading this that has never accepted this gift, I pray that today would be the day they would open their hearts and hands to accept it. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

God with us - All Sons and Daughters

The best Friend we could ever have

“The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.” 1 Timothy 1:15 ESV

As I was scrolling through the many Happy Birthday posts, emails, messages and texts I received yesterday, I was totally overwhelmed with gratefulness and joy at the realization that so many people cared enough to recognize my special day—so much so that I found myself crying upon reading a great majority of them. “Wow. Fifty years of living sure has its’ perks,” I thought to myself. “I’m so extremely blessed to have acquired so many friends over the years to share this journey of life with. Friends that I run with, friends that I work with, friends that I worship with, and friends that I just love to be around. I can’t imagine not having these people in my life Lord. Thank You for all my friends. You were so good to give them to me." 

And you know, if a friend can be defined as a person who is always there for you, always wants what’s best for you, and always loves you, there could never be a better friend in the world than Jesus—something Paul completely understood when he wrote, "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.” You see, Jesus loved mankind so much that He humbled himself as a servant, talking on human flesh, so that He could sympathize with our weakness and die in our place. He befriended sinners of all sorts, not to join them in their sin but to save them from it. Can you think of any better friend than that? Of course not. 

So this Christmas, let us remember that this season is not about the lights, the trees, the parties or the gifts. It’s about celebrating the birth of Jesus who by His birth and death paid a debt we could not pay to save sinners like you and me. Oh what a friend we have in Jesus!

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the greatest Gift we could ever receive. Help us to remember that this season of celebration is all about Jesus. Help us to be bold in sharing that with others that they too might come to know Jesus as their Savior and their Best Friend. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

It’s about the Cross - Go Fish

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-The gift of Time

Hello runner friends! 

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series 

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog. Now let's get started by talking about something that makes everyone smile.... Christmas!! Yes! It's almost here and that means most of you are gearing up to give gifts to your loved ones right? Well what about giving the gift of time? What about giving them something they will cherish more than anything you could ever find online or in a store?

So of all the gifts that a person can give, time is perhaps the one that requires the most sacrifice--thus the reason it is the most precious. Why? Because time is something that can't be bought, can't be returned, can't be stopped and can't be borrowed. In other words, time is the most valuable thing you can give to someone else. And the funny thing about giving of your time is that it blesses both you and the receiver. And to give of your time, you won't have to look very far. There are many opportunities to bless someone else by volunteering this holiday season. I, myself, had the opportunity of volunteering at the Run for the Ranch Marathon/Half over the weekend. And guess what? Doing so reminded me of how blessed I was to have been on the receiving end so many times; so much so that it motivated me to look for other ways to serve in the coming year.

And in the spirit of volunteering, check out these stories from fellow volunteers helping at the RFTR race when I asked the question, "What does it mean for you to volunteer?" Their responses are sure to inspire you to not only high-five those serving at races and other events but to be that person serving from time to time.

Alicia Adamson

There are so many reasons why I volunteer but the biggest one is that I love to see other’s be successful. I enjoy listening to people’s anxieties, pains, frustrations, love, hate, relationship with running. I especially like seeing runners at packet pick up and hearing how their training (or lack thereof) went for the event. If I am not racing, I will stand at the finish line and take pictures of all my buddies crushing their race. For me, it fills my heart to see other’s accomplish their goals. - Alicia Adamson

Donna is in front

What It Means to Volunteer: This was my first time volunteering at Run the Ranch. I was a little nervous since I didn’t know exactly what was expected of me. All the races I’ve done over the years looked so effortless and organized. Was I going to be the one who messed it all up? What if I can’t find their name, bib, drop the medal and ding it? What if I don’t know an answer to someone’s question? What I found out this day is the reason those races all look so effortless is because of the tireless volunteers behind the scenes. The ones that don’t sit down, don’t get potty-breaks, the ones that are expert multitaskers and always have their phone ready to reach another volunteer. They know where the first aid kit is and how to set up tents, tables and stack shirts. They’re the ones that arrive hours before each participant and stay hours afterwards cleaning up and tearing down. This was my first time volunteering but it won’t be my last. Even though after 6 hours on my feet, I was sore and had to take Tylenol and a nap that afternoon I know I didn’t do half of what the race directors did!! They were calm and cool under pressure while making sure every participant was congratulated and received a snack. In between running from station to station putting out fires they were asking the volunteers their name. It was a pleasure volunteering with OMRR and I would be honored to do it again. And the next race I run - I will be sure and thank every volunteer I see. Without them our races are nothing! - Donna Ferenczy

Jackson

Volunteering The Gift that Keeps on Giving... I started volunteering at races last year when I was injured. I did this because I wanted to learn what went into putting on these events as well as say “thank you” to all the countless volunteers I’ve seen at race after race. Volunteering at races is such an incredible experience! You are surrounded by your fitness friends. You are helping people who love to race. You are helping people just starting out at races. You are a part of a great big fitness picture for 100’s of people! I’ve volunteered at OMRR events and Fleet Feet events. The experience is the same. You get to be a part of making the event happen. You are part of bringing people together for an optimal racing experience. I’ve done packet pickup, directed traffic, marked courses, and so on. Once done, I’ve always learned something new or seen things from a different perspective. I would encourage everyone to volunteer at least once. In fact I’d go so far and say once you volunteer you’ll come back again. It will absolutely make you appreciate the hard work that goes into putting these events on. Volunteering truly is the gift that keeps on giving... - Jackson Stilgenbauer

Kris Bossert

Volunteering is the gift that keeps on giving. Do you just love that or what? And to prove that point, think about this... my friend, Kris Bossert, has run countless races. She has also volunteered at countless races. And while I will never know her finishing times, I do know that she has blessed me and so many others with cups of water, bottles of pickle juice, encouraging words and a smile that says, "You can do this." These are the things that people never forget. These are the acts of kindness that warm a person's heart long after the act has passed and the reason selflessly serving others is the gift that keeps on giving. 

So look for opportunities to bless someone today with the gift of your time. It could be by merely performing a random act of kindness, spending extra time with your family, or it could be in a much bigger way like serving at a race or a soup kitchen. Whatever it is, in the spirit of Christmas, let us love others the way Jesus loved us and let us give of our time every chance we get. 

Merry Christmas and Happy Running!!! 

He is our Peace

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 NIV

As I do nearly every weekday afternoon regardless of the weather, I set out for a 15 minute walk on my break from work yesterday. Not only was it unseasonably warm for the end of December but the sun was shining, the birds were singing and a few leaves were still falling softly from the trees. The day seemed nearly perfect. "Oh Lord," I thought to myself as I briskly meandered through the gravel paths of the quiet cemetery behind the Health Department where I'm blessed to be employed. "It's so calm and relaxing out here. In a world that seems to be getting more disorderly, unruly, and chaotic every day, I can't thank You enough for the peace You provide. Thank You for Christmas and all that it means." 

And you know, things were not much different at the time when Jesus came into the world two thousand years ago as a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed in a manger. The world was in turmoil, plagued by idolatry, and full of lawlessness, discontent and injustice. And just like today, the people needed peace; the peace that only the "Prince of Peace" could provide. But Jesus didn't come that first Christmas morning to take away the things that threatened their peace but to be the Source of their peace in spite of them. And you can be sure He is still doing the same thing today. He was, is, and always will be the Source of peace in the midst of unrest and He is the reason you and I can smile today knowing that everything will be okay. 

So in this season of celebration, let us be ever thankful for the birth of our Savior and the peace that He gives to every person who chooses to accept Him as Lord. And let us be ever more determined to share that Source of true Peace with the lost. It would surely be the greatest gift they could ever receive this Christmas. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the true peace that only You can provide. Lord, the peace this world offers is fleeting and based on circumstances but your peace is not. You provide peace despite circumstances. You provide peace in the good times and bad, peace so abundant and overwhelming that it defies understanding. Thank You for this season of Christmas and all that it means. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

The Call of Christmas

God directs our steps

“A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.” proverbs 16:9 NKJV

I had to chuckle as I stood at the corner of Dollison Avenue and Catalpa Street in Springfield, MO early Saturday morning. “This is certainly not what I had in mind when I decided to sign up for the Run for the Ranch marathon many months ago,” I thought to myself as I cheered on the hundreds of runners from my volunteer position that were actually participating in the race. What I had in mind was to run the race with my friends and go home with the medal I had set my heart on; instead I was directing traffic and yelling out, “Go left!! You’re doing great!! Keep it up!” But isn’t that the way life goes for a believer? We plan our ways but the Lord directs our steps? Of course it is.

And you know, when it comes to being used by the Lord for His good purpose, do you realize that the day you and I submitted our hearts and lives to Him was also the day that we submitted our steps to Him as well? Crazy right? But that’s exactly what it means to follow Jesus.... we allow Him to guide us wherever He wills. You see, you and I can make plans until we are literally blue in the face; plans that may even seem to be what we feel the Lord is calling us to. But in the end, the Lord will place us where He wants and will use whatever it takes (in my case a hamstring strain) to get us there. And it’s this knowledge that should incite us to remain joyful when we find ourselves in places we never expected to be that we might fulfill the tasks the Lord has placed before us.

So if you find yourself being redirected today, smile BIG my friend. Although you may not understand it, you can be sure that what God has planned for you is way better than what you had planned for you. He is so good like that.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our ways are not Your ways and that Your ways are always better. Help us to submit to your redirection with joy and anticipation rather than with kicking and screaming that we might be used to bring You glory. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

I will go - Starfield

Recount the stories of faith

"How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets." Hebrews 11:32 NLT

I couldn't believe how great I felt Wednesday. The pain in my right foot caused by an inflamed tendon was all but gone after spending two weeks in the pool and I was elated to be free and running outside again despite the cold temperatures and darkness of the early morning. But six miles in—with a smile on my face, a song on my lips and a ramped up pace—I felt it. "Oh no!" I literally cried out loud fighting back the tears as the all too familiar pain reemerged and forced me to stop. "Not another hamstring strain!" But that's exactly what it was. And while I'd like to say that I "got over it" quickly, I sulked for the next couple of hours. But you know what I didn't do? I didn't give up on God. In fact I later prayed, "Lord I’m sorry for the tantrum I had. I admit that I don't understand this trial and I don't understand this pain but I know that there is a reason for it so I will trust You." 

And you know, the Bible is very clear about trials and pain in the life of a believer. Every follower of Jesus Christ will experience them. It's just a fact. And while God certainly uses these times to draw us closer to Him and to make us more like Jesus, He also uses these times to inspire others to keep the faith. You see, it's easy to follow God when things are going well and to have faith in a God who offers a life of ease and comfort right? But when things get hard, that's when our faith is tested. But that's also when we should "recount the stories of the faith" of so many people in the Bible; people like Samson, David, and all the prophets who encountered many of the same tests, trials and pain that we are going through today but kept the faith and were rewarded for doing so. 

So in a world that is sure to bring us pain, sadness and sorrow (sometimes daily), let us remember that our God is always faithful. And let us vow to press on in the midst of our pain so that someone else can see our story of faith being written and be inspired to press on as well. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that the pain we experience in this life is not in vain. Help us to trust You when we don't understand why we have to endure it though. Lord, your ways are so much higher than ours. Please cause that knowledge to strengthen our resolve to press on as we look to You knowing that You are all we need. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

I look to You - Selah

Trials serve a purpose

"'But in their distress they turned to the LORD God of Israel, and they sought Him, and He let them find Him." 2 Chronicles 15:4 NASB

In an article recently published by Runners World Magazine titled, “How Covid-19 has affected our running and riding habits in 2020,” Strava’s Year in Sport Data stats gave an insight into how countless runners around the world reacted to the pandemic. Data from the 73 million people using the fitness app showed how this huge online community has exercised since lockdowns were introduced. And guess what? According to those stats, we’ve been moving more than ever. Strava data confirms what most of us suspected: the pandemic led to an exercise boom, at least in some sports. In 2020, the platform gained two million new members per month, with a total of 21.5 million uploads per week. The Strava team wrote in the report, ‘At the global level, the Covid-19 pandemic resulted in a rise of activity on Strava like we’ve never seen before, far surpassing our normal projections.

And you know, there’s another way the events of 2020, namely the lockdowns and economic distress felt by most everyone, have affected people on a global level. A new national poll revealed that one in five non-Christians polled said the crisis caused them to start reading the Bible and watching Christian sermons online. Even many self-identified Christians told the pollsters that they were reading the Bible more than ever, regularly watching or listening to Bible teachings, and "attending" church services online in an effort to understand Bible prophecy. And while it’s sad that it took a trial of this proportion to cause people to seek God, it’s certainly nothing new. The Bible tells us that the Israelites continually “turned to the Lord God of Israel” in their times of distress. Uncertainty and despair have a way of making people do that don’t they?

So at this unprecedented time in history when three in ten Americans polled said they believe that the coronavirus and economic meltdown are “signs that we are living in what the Bible calls the last days,” let us not be silent. Let us by any means possible tell the world that there is hope. And that hope has a name... and that name is Jesus Christ... the One who came to be born in a manger only to die on a cross for our sins. And while no one knows for certain when He will return, we must be ready by seeking the Lord today. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our peace in the midst of the storms brewing around us. Thank You for the trials that inspire the lost and the backslidden to seek You and the faithful to draw ever closer to You. Although these trials are trying for everyone, help us to embrace them for the good they do. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

God turn it around - Jon Reddick

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Take those baby steps

Hello runner friends! 

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series 

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog. Now let's get started by talking about how taking a few baby steps toward your 2021 goals can motivate you to take a few more, and a few more and a few more still... until you are finally successful. 

But since the Bass Pro Fitness Series is all about inspiring people to get fit and stay fit, let's talk about the two things a person MUST do in order to improve their physical health... move more and eat less. Could it really be that simple? Yes! And achieving this goal will no doubt give you the energy and confidence to tackle the other resolutions on your list as well. 

Okay so if you don't exercise at all, take heart in knowing that you're in very good company. A recent CDC report stated that only 23% of Americans are meeting the federal standards for exercise. Sadly the report also revealed that the majority of Americans are not eating enough fruit and vegetables either. So what's step number one then? Identifying the first few short-term goals that will help you reach your long-term goal of getting fit and staying fit. 

With that in mind, let's look at these baby steps from the viewpoint of a marathon starting line (because this process is not a sprint but a 26.2 mile run). I want you to picture yourself standing there. Can you see the finish line from where you are? Of course not. So running to reach it wouldn't make much sense would it? But you can see quite a ways ahead right? And that's how you need to break it down. Pick out what you can see and make it there. And then do it over and over again  until you are successful. 

Let's start with movement!!! What are three steps you can take right now to put an exercise program into place that you can build off of? 

1. Aim to get the minimum recommended daily amount of exercise each week. Prepare your resolve in advance. 

2. Now make a daily goal to reach that weekly goal. Vow to walk, ride, bike or dance at least 30 minutes each day at least five days a week. You can even mix it up and do a combination of these. And even with the colder weather approaching, you can do this! Walk laps in your house. Take a stroll around the mall. Put on a free dance video or invest in a home exercise machine. Do what you have to do to start taking these baby steps. And remember... go at your own pace and only compare yourself to the person you were yesterday. 

3. On your two rest days, add in strength training sessions. There are some great articles out there for what you can do in your home with what you have in your home. Don't be intimidated either. It's not as hard as you think.

Now let's move on to eating less - and by that I mean eating fewer of the things that have no real nutritional value and replacing them with the fruits and vegetables you need to be eating more of. We're taking baby steps remember?

1. First. Make a list and go shopping because guess what? If you don't have any fruits and veggies in your home, you can't eat them right? And while you're at the store, think about investing in an inexpensive smoothie maker. You'd be amazed at how much more fruit you'll eat if it's blended with your favorite brand of milk and can be consumed on the go. 

2. Meal prep. This is super important and so easy. Even if you can't prep all your food, be sure to have fruits and veggies in your fridge or freezer (avoid canned when possible) at all times so you can grab them when you have the urge to splurge. 

3. Make easy substitutions. Craving that cherry pie? Grab some fresh cherries instead. Have McDonald's french-fries on the brain? Put some frozen fries in your air fryer. Go lighter on the salt and find another type of seasoning that might tickle your palette but be a little more heart healthy. Start with some easy switches. 

So there you have it friends. Start with baby steps. Just don't stop with baby steps! Think of this journey as a marathon and make a plan to get to each mile marker. You'll most likely find that by mile marker number 8, 9 or 10, those baby steps have become bigger steps and you're reaching your goals quicker and quicker. And who knows? By mile 20, you may even be off and sprinting to the finish line... fitter, thinner, smarter and more focused on being the best that you can be... all thanks to those baby steps. Heck, you might even discover that you're now physically, mentally, and emotionally ready to step up to the actual start line of the Bass Pro Half or Full Marathon in November of 2021. It's up to you, but it all starts with the choice to start taking those baby steps today. You can do it!

Happy Running!!!

Cut it out completely

"So if your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand or one foot than to be thrown into eternal fire with both of your hands and feet." Matthew 18:8 NLT

To say I was overjoyed to be able to run on Sunday would be a total understatement. Without a doubt, my early morning runs before church are my absolute favorites of the week. In fact, I love them so much that I did something many runners wouldn't dream of doing. I cut off a portion of the tongue on the right shoe of a new pair of my beloved HOKA running shoes. Why? Because it was irritating and compressing the anterior tendon on that foot which had become inflamed several weeks prior during an ultra marathon. So in order to continue running, I had to completely remove the source of the irritation. And before you say I ruined a good pair of expensive shoes, consider this... if I had tried to continue running with the tongue intact, it would have become too painful to bear and I would have had to stop. But with the small strip of fabric removed, I was able to finish the run I had started. 

And you know, many of the sins we hold onto work in the same way. They seem harmless at first but over time can cause irritation and pain so intense that they force us to drop out of the race. Which is the very reason Jesus said, "if your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand or one foot than to be thrown into eternal fire with both of your hands and feet." And while Jesus wasn't telling us to literally chop off our body parts, He was telling us that sin is a very serious thing--so serious, in fact, that we should go to radical lengths to remove it completely. 

So if there's a particular sin in your life that is threatening to keep you from reaching the finish line, remove it my friend no matter how much it might hurt to do so. You'll be so glad you did; because I can assure you that there is absolutely nothing worth missing heaven for and absolutely nothing worth going to hell for. Nothing.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that there is nothing in this world that we could ever do or possess that is worth losing out on an eternity spent with You. Cause us to understand how fleeting our time on earth is compared to forever Lord that we would look to do and seek only those things that will please You and have eternal value. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Wake Up Sleeper - Austin French

Come just as you are

“Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.” Isaiah 1:18 ESV

“And it was another successful FFG Donut Run!! I love these monthly events!! Did you know that they are absolutely free and open to EVERYBODY???? Did you also know that you can walk, bike or ruck them too? At your own pace?? Come join us... We welcome you!!” Those were the words I posted (along with pictures) after Saturday’s 5k race that the Frog Fitness Group I am blessed to be a part of hosted. Started nearly six years ago as an outreach ministry, these fun runs have been welcoming people of all ages, paces, fitness levels, and backgrounds into the "family" for years. In fact, the members of this group stress that a person doesn’t have to be a runner to join in. “Come and walk with us,” we always say. “It doesn’t matter how quickly you make it to the finish line only that you make it there.”

And you know, when it comes to people joining our group (or any fitness group for that matter), I have discovered that the biggest misconception people have and the main reason they shy away is because they think they have to be in "good" shape first. Something that just isn't true. Just as it isn't true that a person has to be in “good” shape or have it all together before God will accept them. In fact, our gracious Father invites sinners in the worst of shape to come to Him just as they are so that He, Himself, can clean them saying, "though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool." And the best part? A person only needs to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior to receive this amazing gift of forgiveness and be accepted into the "family" of believers. 

So as we approach this Christmas season, let us remember that Jesus Christ came to be born in a manger so that He could die on a cross to give us a gift that we did not deserve. He did it for me. He did it for you. And He did it for every other sinner who chooses to say, "Lord I will follow You." Won't you tell somebody? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us despite our unworthiness... so much so that You sent your one and only Son to die so that we could be made clean and have eternal life. If there's someone reading this today that has not accepted You out of guilt, shame or any other reason, I pray that You would stir their heart to do so right now before it's too late. Cause them to have the overwhelming desire to run to You today. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Run to the Father - Cody Carnes

When hope is deferred

"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life." Proverbs 13:12 NLT

In another blow to athletes around the world, the World Athletics Indoor Championships announced that their event scheduled for March 19-21, 2021 in Nanjing China (which was initially scheduled to be held March 13-15, 2020 but was postponed due to COVID concerns) has been postponed yet again; this time until 2023. And while the event, which is normally held every other year, will be hosted for three straight years to make up for the lost one, it surely comes as no consolation to those runners who have trained hard and waited for this moment but have had to put their dreams of winning a championship on hold. 

And you know, these athletes aren't the only ones who have had their dreams, goals and aspirations disrupted recently. Countless people everywhere are experiencing disappointment, disillusionment, depression and frustration over the events of 2020 that have put many of their plans on hold indefinitely. And you can be sure all these dashed hopes have sickened many peoples' hearts. Thankfully though, the Bible tells us that when our hope is deferred, we can and should look to Jesus Christ. You see, when you and I place our hope in Christ alone, we won't be disappointed when the hopes, desires and expectations of this life aren't fulfilled. 

So if life has you down today, I urge you to look up my friend. Things might not be going as you might have planned but that's okay. Put your hope and trust in Jesus and you will never be let down, cast down or disheartened. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that life doesn't always work out the way we planned which is a beautiful thing because it teaches us to trust in You and yield to your plan instead. Cause us to remember Lord that no matter how things look right now, You are in total control--and that when we place our total hope and trust in You, we can have total peace. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

It's Gonna Get Better

Itching ears lead to trouble

"For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear." 2 Timothy 4:3 NLT

If you've been running for any length of time like I have, you've probably seen lots of trends come and go. Remember the Vibram toe shoes that were all the rage for a while until countless runners got injured? Well now there is another new trend that Colleen M. Brough, director of Columbia Runlab at Columbia University, is seeing, "Runners, especially recreational runners, have full-on embraced the ankle and wrist weights trend." Why the sudden interest in running with weights you might ask? "While gyms were closed, the perceived benefits of the cuff weights trend might allow for strength training and aerobic fitness getting done in the same workout,” Colleen said. “Some think that greater strength gains are happening because of the greater load being towed during the run.” But just like most trends in the fitness industry... this one comes with a high potential for injury and should be avoided.

And you know, when it comes to trends or the ways in which something changes or develops, the world has never been short of people searching for new ideas or ways to do things. Unfortunately trends aren't just limited to changing the way we do fitness or fashion either. In record numbers, professing Christians are looking "for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear." Why? Because "sound and wholesome teaching" doesn't fit into their lifestyle and makes them uncomfortable. But guess what? This growing trend is extremely dangerous because, unlike the world's view of morality which changes by the minute, God's definition of what's right and wrong never changes and neither do the consequences for disobedience that are laid out in the Bible.

So if what you're listening to doesn't convict you or make you feel uncomfortable in some way, then you might want to ask yourself, "Does the message this person is preaching align with the Truths laid out in the Bible or does this person only say what I want to hear?"

Heavenly Father, thank You for the timely reminder that trends are not tried and true. They come and go and usually leave disaster in their wake. Help us to seek out and listen to only those pastors and teachers that deliver sound doctrine that aligns completely with your Word. Incite us to be "factcheckers" Lord who read our Bibles diligently and consistently so we might be discerning in these last days and lead others to be the same by our example. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

You never change

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Add life to your years

Hello runner friends! 

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series 

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog. Now let's get started by talking about how running can not only add years to your life but life to your years... something that I hope will motivate you to either take up running or take your running to a new level.

So when it comes to living longer, the research is in according to a recent article published in Runner's World Magazine titled Vigorous Exercise Could Add Years to Your Life. All activity is helpful," the researchers said. "But throwing in some intense workouts could give your health an extra boost." That means developing a running routine with a few HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) spurts thrown in can potentially lengthen your lifespan. In fact, researchers went on to say that, "those who had a higher proportion of vigorous physical activity to total amount of exercise showed a lower risk of early death from all causes. That means they were more likely to live longer than those who didn’t have more intense exercise in their routines. And when it comes to how much, 150 minutes of vigorous activity a week seemed to give the largest advantages in terms of health." 

So now that we know how running can add years to your life, let's talk about five ways running can add life to your years. But first, let's discuss what that means. Have you ever met those people who can regale you for hours on end with tales of the fun, crazy, amazing, and sometimes stupid things they've done? Like doing a themed run in a costume? Running a crazy-long distance just to get a buckle when they don't even own a belt? Hiking to the top of a tall mountain just to see the sunrise? Or running a race they weren't trained for just because someone dared them to or because it was for a good cause? These are the people who add life to their years! Think about it... I'm approaching 50 (my birthday is December 23) and living life to the fullest has been my goal for as long as I can remember. I live each day with the intent of making a difference in the life of someone else, learning something new, doing something memorable and maybe even remotely dangerous, working to be better than I was yesterday, and learning to be more grateful. And because of this, my days aren't just lived but experienced to their full (some days more than others of course). But this is what it means to add life to your years. And guess what? Running can help you do that! How? 

1. Because running takes you to places you never dreamed you would go. I am not even joking about this! While you may only see your own neighborhood and maybe even the city park when you first start running, keep with it for a while and you'll most definitely expand your horizons (literally). I would never have dreamed I'd be scaling the mountains of Alaska or running the streets of Boston but those are just two of the places that running has brought me. It may not bring you that far, but it will definitely bring you to places you would never have ventured otherwise... especially if you experience number 2.

2. Because running brings people into your life that will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. This one is so true! Do you remember your mother ever asking you, "If all your friends jumped off a cliff, would you do it?" Well if you're with other runners the answer would most likely be, "Maybe. Is there a shirt and finisher medal at the bottom?" This is just the way runners are and one of the main reasons they add life to their years! They take chances and do things most other people wouldn't even dream of doing... and they make it fun!

3. Because running teaches you that there is always something to be thankful for.  Bad day at work? A simple run can relieve all the stresses from the day and give you a new attitude. Have a problem that you need a solution for? A good run can get your blood pumping and help you brainstorm. Science shows that we think better when we run. Feeling down? A run out in nature can have you counting your blessings. Seeing the sun rise or set has the power to remind you that a new day is sure to bring new hope. Plain and simple, when you're out on a run, your mind can find endless things to be thankful for. And being grateful is one of the very best ways to add life to your years because it allows you to appreciate the moments you are given. 

4. Because running allows you to disconnect from the world. Face it. In this day and age, most people are inundated with social media, texts, calls, news and other alerts that pop up on their phones or computers. And spending time staring at a screen while surfing, posting or tweeting is only living life virtually which is not living life at all. Running allows you to get outside with the purpose of breaking free from life and engaging with nature, the people around you and your own self. I cannot even begin to stress the importance of getting alone and getting away from the noise and distractions of this world regularly. It will transform you!

5. Because running reminds you of how valuable and fleeting time really is. This is something every runner eventually comes to understand. Time stands still for no one. Everyone of us will get older physically no matter how old we remain mentally and it will eventually show in slower finishing times and longer recovery times. This is the beauty of running though. It's a reminder to enjoy every run for what it is... a gift from our Creator that we don't deserve but get to experience. Recognizing that time is limited is the very thing that helps us to make the best use of it, thereby adding life to the years we are given. Think about it... some people live to be 90 and never have anything even remotely interesting to talk about. Other people may live only half that long but more than make up for it in life experiences and the positive and long-lasting impact they had on other people and the world around them. Live to be one of those people!

So there you have it friends... running can not only add years to your life but life to those years. Which is a great reason to make 2021 the year you either become a more consistent runner or take your running to a new level; a level that might not necessarily mean putting in more miles but logging your miles with renewed intention, increased gratitude and a revived sense of wonder and awe at the blessings running brings into your life. Because after all... running truly is a gift. 

Happy Running!!!

Jesus sets the captives free

"Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin." John 8:34 ESV

As the Wellness Coordinator for the local health department in our county, I have the blessing of organizing and directing many running and fitness events throughout the year. So you can just imagine the frustration I felt yesterday when I discovered that the company van I use to haul the supplies and equipment needed to do this was vandalized. It seems that, in an effort to steal the catalytic converter from the vehicle, thieves had cut a hole through the floorboard and sawed a portion of the exhaust manifold in half; no doubt for money to buy drugs we were later told by the investigating officer who assured us that we were not alone in our experience. And while I was a bit angry at first, those feelings quickly turned to sadness prompting me to pray, “Oh Lord, the people who did this were desperate to feed their addiction. They are such total slaves to their sin that they will never be able to break free from their bondage unless they turn to You. Compel their hearts to seek you God that they might be find You and be restored." 

And you know, when it comes to sin, Jesus made it abundantly clear that, "everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin," using the analogy of a slave and his master so that you and I would truly understand the power sin has over a person. You see, a slave has no choice but to obey his master—whatever that "master" might be (whether it be drug addiction, porn, adultery, gambling, anger or anything else)—because he or she belongs to and is owned by that master who has total and complete control over them. But guess what? Jesus came to set the captives free, and in Him even the worst of sinners can be forgiven and restored; something we should be telling all those held in bondage. 

So in a world that desperately needs hope now more than ever, let us carry the Message that so many people need to hear... Jesus loves you and wants to free you the sins that are holding you captive today. He can and will break your chains if you will let Him. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that there are hurting people in this world who desperately need to be freed from the chains of addiction. Help us to have compassion on these people Lord that we would be moved to pray for them rather than condemn them as we remember that we too are sinners saved by grace. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Chain breaker - Zach Williams