The beginning of birthing pains

"All these are the beginning of birth pains." Matthew 24:8 BSB

In an article subtitled "Many runner habits of body and mind are helpful when you’re expecting" published by Runner's World last week, pregnant runner Becky Wade said, "In the 14 years that I’ve been running at a high level, it never occurred to me that all the miles I was logging, the lifestyle I was leading, and the mindset I was cultivating might, in a roundabout way, be preparing me for pregnancy." She went on to say that, as she approaches her mid-December due date, she was thankful that Irish record holder, Olympian, licensed mental health therapist, and mother of three Roisin McGettigan-Dumas shared some of her experiences with pregnancy and how running helped to prepare her for what she referred to as, "a big build up to the crowning event of the year, only instead of a major global championship, it was the birth.” With all the changes happening within her body, Becky said that she was thankful that Roisin could help her "make sense of it all."

And you know, if you're like millions of other people today, you might be looking around at all of the changes taking place in the world and trying to "make sense of it all." In fact, our society seems to be morally deteriorating so rapidly that we've almost become numb to the news of violent rioting, shutdowns, mass shootings, famines, earthquakes, rumors of war, racial tensions, children caught up in sex-trafficking rings, and so on. But you can be sure that these are not only signs of the end times but, as the Bible tells us, "the beginning of birth pains.” Birth pains and wickedness that will get more intense and accelerated in the coming days. And while the thought of what’s to come might have you anxious or afraid, you can have peace by taking into consideration that these events are all signs of Jesus’ imminent return. 

So remember my friends, although no one knows the exact day or hour when Christ will come back, we can only assume that it will be soon based on the signs. Which means that we should be preparing for the ultimate "crowning event" of all time by living a righteous lifestyle now and busily working to inspire others to do the same. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that nothing in this world takes You by surprise. Knowing that You are in complete control should fill every believer with the peace that surpasses all understanding no matter what chaos or confusion is erupting around us. Remind us that we are to be found busy as we expectantly and hopefully await your return. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!