We Should be Known for our Charity

“Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.’” Acts 3:6 NKJV

In a story titled, "Colin Farrell Finishes Marathon While Pushing Friend in Wheelchair" published earlier this week, it was reported that Award-winning actor and runner Colin Farrell finished the Dublin Marathon in 4:06:45 while pushing his friend in a wheelchair for the last 2.5 miles, according to The Irish Times. Farrell, 48, and Emma Fogarty, 40, have raised more than $690,000 for the charity Debra Ireland, which supports those like Fogarty living with a rare skin condition called epidermolysis bullosa. In a video on X from Saturday’s race, he asks her, “Shall we go again?” Farrell described Fogarty’s condition as more painful than running a marathon, explaining her body is “80 percent open wound,” while speaking with Seth Meyers last month… “I have known Emma for many years and she epitomizes bravery, she is what courage and pure determination are all about,” Farrell said in a statement after the race, according to the Irish Times. Epidermolysis bullosa, also known as butterfly skin, is an excruciating blistering condition of the skin, for which there is no cure. The life expectancy for severe cases is early infancy to about 35 years old. Fogarty just turned 40, and this marathon was a celebration of that milestone. Farrell is heavily involved with charity. Earlier this year, he founded the Colin Farrell Foundation in honor of his son, who has Angelman Syndrome, a neuro-genetic disorder.

And, you know, when it comes to charity, we would all do well to remember that believers are to be known for their uncommon love and generosity—and that the voluntary giving of help to someone in need that stems from that tremendous love isn’t always in the form of money. In fact, when Peter and John met a crippled beggar, rather than give the man coins, Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” In doing this, Peter showed that charity is giving to others out of the various resources that God has given us. Which means we can all be charitable givers!

So look for opportunities to use the time, talents, and treasures the Lord has blessed you with to show the love of Jesus to someone in need today my friend. After all, everything we have comes from God to be used for God

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that every one of us can and should be generous givers out of the resources You have blessed us with. Lord, please help us to see the opportunities around us to do good for your glory and to be found working hard at it. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Pride is a Dangerous Thing

“When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2 NKJV

In a harrowing story published Monday that made global news Robert Schock, a 39-year-old ultrarunner,  reported that he set out on a 32-kilometer run in North Cascades National Park on July 31 clad with only his dog and a small backpack with limited supplies. Schock told Cascadia News that he was feeling adventurous that day and in search of stunning views, which prompted him to use a cable car suspended over the Chilliwack River to pull himself across to the opposite bank. But when he reached the other side, he became disoriented by the scenery, which had been altered by wildfires in recent years, and realized his phone had lost GPS service. “When I got out there, the trail was no longer there,” Schock told People. “I was curious to know what happened to this trail and my curiosity kind of kept me going.” On the second day, his phone died. But it wasn’t until the following day he realized he was hopelessly lost and began to worry. After being rescued nearly a month later just days from death, and having time to meditate on all that happened, Robert said “Many times I’ve placed myself in situations where I’d question if I’d ever make it back, and always did, usually through the aid of another who would come along and save me. I had a cocky attitude about it. This time was different. I knew, based on where I was, that the likelihood of help was almost zero. I was ready to die out there.”

And, you know, as this story shows, there’s nothing that can serve to strip a person of their pride or “cocky attitude” like a near death experience. Which is a good thing since unchecked pride eventually leads to spiritual death and disgrace. Hence the reason King Solomon, a man who ironically allowed his pride to override the wisdom God had given him said, “When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.” Because of the unchecked pride in his heart, Solomon acquired massive amounts of silver and gold and thousands of horses and chariots in direct defiance of God’s law—showing off all he had amassed to the Queen of Sheba. Solomons pride also led him to be disobedient in accumulating 700 pagan wives and 300 concubines, who eventually turned his heart away from God and led to his shame. 

So remember that pride is a dangerous thing my friend. It slips in slowly, silently, and sneakily and, if left unchecked, will lead a person to believe they are the captain of their own ship and maker of their own destiny—therefore having no need for God and no need to follow God. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that a prideful heart that takes its eyes off you can quickly cause us people to see themselves as self-made with no need for You. Furthermore, this attitude fails to acknowledge You as the Giver and Sustainer of all good things. In light of that, please help us to stay humble Lord that we might not reject the wisdom You have given us through the Word and through the Holy Spirit. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Tips to Get You to the Finish Line

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about the day we've all been training for.... race day!!!! I don't know about you but I'm super excited that the Bass Pro Marathon Weekend is just around the corner!! And to help you make it to the finish line on Sunday, I've consulted the experts (better known as your Bass Pro Pacers) and asked them for some tips to increase your chances of joining the post race party. And this is what “the experts” had to say:

Trust your training and just enjoy the experience. - Charlie 

Start 20 to 30 seconds slower than race pace to warm up. Easy on the ups. Use gravity on the downs. Hydration early before you think you need it.... Finishing is winning - Erika

Have fun and smile!... it will help to keep your form relaxed and decrease the effort. - Melissa N. 

Enjoy what is on the course... the crowd, the aid stations, the fall beauty. - Janet

Remember that you don't HAVE to do this. You GET to do this. - Larry 

Simply breathe and trust your training, but if you didn't train, just go with it and enjoy!! - Fina

Have a good poo before you leave the house. - Adam Irvin

Now is the time to Shine

Training Miles🏃🏻‍♂️‍➡️🏃🏻‍♀️‍➡️ 

Summer Runs

Miles with Friends  

Goodnight Rest - Brad

For those doing Run-walk-run “May you Run-walk-run like the wind with me in the 5:45 group.” Also your main prep meal/s are two days prior on Friday and it is always important to start to hydrating starting 3 days before- David

Never trust a fart…especially during a marathon.- Chris

Have fun! - Kathy

Do a really easy half mile run before you line up so your legs are warmed up and ready. Or a nice stretch works too. - Randy

Just remember to have fun!! - Rachel

The only person who needs to believe in you, is you. - Kayla

Don't forget the body glide. Especially if the forecast bears out and we get rain. Wool socks are good for that too.- Lali

When it get tough, just run the mile you’re in. Don’t get overwhelmed by the distance to the finish. It’s a blessing to run, enjoy! - Jeff

And now on to my tips (I couldn’t narrow it down to just one)…

Address your nutritional and hydration needs before they address you and avoid going out too fast. This is the best way to keep yourself from hitting "the wall" physically. And then guard your joy at all costs! This is the best way to avoid hitting "the wall" mentally. After all a happy mind means happy legs. But... if you do hit a mental wall (and every runner will at one point or another), check out these tips for pulling yourself out of it:

• Focus on the crowds, the scenery (it will be beautiful!), putting one foot in front of the other. Listen to music, think about the parts of your body that do feel good – such as your arms – and give them a little shake out. 

• Positive self-talk and visualization play a huge part in any successful race strategy. Before the race begins, do some visualization exercises in which you do hit a mental wall and lose confidence – now picture yourself dealing with it effectively and overcoming it. Have a mantra that you repeat to yourself: something supportive like “I’ve got this”, “I am strong, I am capable”or “I can make it to the next mile".

• Remember why you're doing this and what group you'll be a part of once you cross the finish line. It's estimated that less than 1% of the global population has ever run a marathon or half marathon. That means whether you're running for charity, in memory of someone, or running for yourself, it's a phenomenal, lifetime achievement and will put you in the coveted 1% running club. You could also write down the reasons you're running or the names of the person or people you're running for and look at these when you need a boost to keep going. Write them on your arm or laminate them and keep them in your pocket, hydration vest, or fanny pack.

• Have an upbeat playlist ready. Music is a great motivator! Even if you don't normally listen to music on your runs, have this ready to go just in case. 

• Last but not least, if you can no longer run... walk. And keep walking all the way to the finish line. You'll be so glad you did!

And there you have it friends. It's time to put your training to the test, have some fun, score some cool bling, and make some new friends along the way. So get your bags packed and be ready to use some of these tips so you can join the party at the finish line! Happy Running!

Giving Up is Not an Option

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57 NKJV

In a story titled “Conquering the wall: A marathon runner's mental triumph” published yesterday, runner Vuyani Ndlovu said that his training for last Sunday’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was complicated by a medical procedure that forced him to take a break from training. “ This setback,” he said, “not only affected my physical fitness, but also shook my confidence. As I lined up at the starting line, I couldn't shake the anxiety about when I would hit the wall (a point where runners' bodies hit a breaking point, and many succumb to the urge to quit). The wall arrived around the 28-kilometre mark. My legs felt heavy, and the once exhilarating atmosphere turned into a monotonous slog. My mind, desperate for relief, suggested stopping. Yet, I knew that giving up was not an option. This was a mental battle as much as a physical one… The final kilometres were a blur of pain, determination, and relief. I crossed the finish line, exhausted but exhilarated. The marathon had been a gruelling test, but I had emerged victorious. 

And, you know, while “the wall” is a formidable opponent in the world of long distance running, believers face a greater opponent each and every day… an opponent that seeks not only to stop us but to utterly and completely destroy us. Furthermore this battle isn’t against a flesh and blood enemy but against the unseen devil and his evil forces in the heavenly realms. Which is the very reason we must be ready to face these diabolical attacks with the confident courage of knowing that ultimate victory will come “through our Lord Jesus Christ” if we don’t give up. We might come out of the battle exhausted, but we WILL emerge victorious if we keep our eyes on Jesus and keep fighting the good fight. 

So remember that the Christian life is not a sprint, or even a marathon my friend. It’s a lifelong ultra marathon that’s not for the faint of heart. There will be troubles, grueling tests, and “walls” along the way but God will give us the strength to push through each and every one. So hang in there until you reach that final finish line and see the Savior’s face. I promise you it will be worth it. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You never said that the race set before us would be easy. In fact, You told us that it would take endurance, faith, hope, and determination to finish it. Help us to stay strong in the tests of life and to keep the faith Lord so that we might emerge victorious through your Son, Jesus Christ. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Make Every Second Count

“‘LORD, make me to know my end, And what is the measure of my days, That I may know how frail I am.” Psalm 39:4 NKJV

In a story titled “Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha breaks the men's half-marathon world record by one second” published yesterday, it was reported that Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha made every second count as he broke the men's half-marathon record by just one second Sunday. Kejelcha finished strongly in the Spanish city of Valencia to set a time of 57 minutes, 30 seconds, knocking a single second off the record set in 2021 by Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo in Lisbon, Portugal. Wow right? Yomif was so fast that I had to manually calculate his pace (4.375) since no pace chart lists a half marathon that fast! And to put into perspective how amazing his feat was, and why he had to make every single second count, consider that the amount of time he broke the record in was about the amount of time it takes to sneeze. 

And, you know, when it comes to having the wisdom to make every second count, you and I would do well to follow the example of David who prayed, “LORD, make me to know my end, And what is the measure of my days, that I may know how frail I am.” David wanted to understand just how short and unpredictable life was so he would not only grasp how weak, fragile, prone to wander, and easily broken he was without God but would recognize that he only had a certain amount of time to serve God and to bring Him glory, which were David’s absolute priorities. 

So in the spirit of a runner seeking to break a world record, make every second count my friend. Run your race the best that you absolutely can, by living each and every moment to know God and to serve Him—so that no matter how long or short your life is, you’ll have done your part in bringing God glory, helping others, and leading the lost to Jesus. Apart from that, life is lived in vain. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that every second we are given is a gift to be used for the Kingdom. Lord, please help us to understand just how fleeting and delicate life is that we would not waste the time You have given us. Help us to live in such a way that our lives, no matter how many days we have had, will have mattered. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Don’t be Afraid to Speak Up

“He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD.” Proverbs 17:15 NKJV

In a troubling story published earlier this week titled “Male Runner Dominates Maine Girls Cross-Country Track Competitions,” it was reported that A biologically male runner who identifies as a female has been dominating high school girls’ cross-country track competitions across Maine since he transitioned following a lackluster freshman season competing against other boys. The student, a junior at the Maine Coast Waldorf School in Freeport, dominated at the Western Maine Conference Championship in Standish on Wednesday, Oct. 16. He took first place in the five-kilometer cross-country run. While this is wrong on so many levels, the writer went on to explain the absurdly wicked justification those ‘in charge’ of making the rule that is allowing this to happen gave, “The Maine Principals Association’s (MPA) policy allows athletes to compete based on gender identity rather than biological sex ‘unless such participation would result in an unfair athletic advantage or would present an unacceptable risk of injury to other student-athletes.’ The MPA does not consider Waldorf school runner’s biological sex an ‘unfair advantage’ when he competes against girls in the 5k run.”

And, you know, just because the MPA doesn’t ‘consider’ a male competing against a female an ‘unfair advantage,’ it doesn’t make their consideration truth. You see, only God can define and declare the truth, and God has declared that there are only two sexes that He made completely different, with men clearly having a strength and speed advantage over women for a reason. That fact is the very reason the Bible calls those who justify the wicked and those who condemn the just “an abomination to the Lord.” Which means Christians who justify this type of evil behavior when they fail to speak up—implying by their silence that they condone the immoral, ungodly, and downright illogical and inappropriate ruling that rationalizes evil and harms young women—are being exceptionally sinful. 

So don’t be afraid to speak up when you encounter wicked behavior that harms innocent people my friend —especially those people who can’t speak up for themselves. As believers in Jesus Christ, we should not only be known for our love but for our boldness in exposing evil and fighting those who are complicit in doing it as well. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we have a duty and an obligation to protect all children. Lord, please give us the courage to boldly speak up when we encounter people and situations that are immoral, anti biblical, and harmful to others. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Report Abuse and Support the Abused

“Deliver the poor and needy; Free them from the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 82:4 NKJV

In a story titled “Head Over Heels? Man Runs Chicago Marathon in a Pair of Bright Red Stilettos,” published Monday, it was reported that Curtis Hargrove, a runner from Edmonton, Alberta, known for his exploits in marathon running for various charities, set out to break the record for a marathon run in high heels during the Chicago Marathon on October 13. The current fastest marathon time by a male in high heels is 5:13:27, set by Oscar Eriksen of the U.K. in 2023. Hargrove ran the race in the unusual footwear to support Stepping Stones Crisis Society, a nonprofit that offers support and outreach for victims of domestic violence. The funds raised by Hargrove will go toward building a new shelter and transitional housing for women and children experiencing domestic abuse. “This is really important to me. This is really important to our community, and I just want to do my best and support them,” Hargrove told CTV News earlier this year before running the Edmonton Marathon in a pair of stilettos.

And you know, when it comes to supporting women and children experiencing domestic abuse, the Bible is very clear that abuse of any kind is wrong and that believers are to do their part to “Deliver the poor and needy” and to “Free them from the hand of the wicked.” That means we have to personally get involved in exposing the evildoers behind the abuse and support and love those undergoing abuse physically, emotionally, and financially so they can move away from their abusive homes or relationships to heal and be restored. 

So don’t be afraid to speak up when you see abuse of any kind my friend. Failing to do so not only leaves you in a state of complicity (which is a sin), but allows the abusers to further perpetuate evil. 

Heavenly Father, there is so much abuse in our world today. Help us to not only be courageous in bringing it to light but to do our part in freeing those in abusive situations from the hand of those committing the abuse. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Race Day Tips

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let’s get started by talking about the weekend we’ve all been waiting for… Bass Pro Marathon Weekend!!! It's right around the corner! And while this is an exciting time for first time runners and seasoned runners alike, you might be saying, “I’d sure like some tips that will make the experience better and/or easier.” Well… in an effort to calm any prerace nerves that you might have and to ensure that you’ll walk away with a smile on your face, check out these tips that are sure to help. These tips also apply to those of us (yes I’ll be there too!) running Dogwood Canyon as well!

Pre Race

Stop Stressing

For real! Races like the ones Bass Pro put on are hugely positive community events. Think about it—you get to spend your morning with strangers cheering you on, feeding you and offering you water, as well celebrating you doing something healthy for yourself. And you get to meet other runners along the course. No cause for stress right? Just go and enjoy the fun! 

And if your biggest fear is coming in last, don’t worry. In all likelihood, you won’t be last. People with a very wide range of abilities and levels of fitness do the races. And there's always lots of walkers! But if you're last, that’s still something to celebrate because you’re lapping everyone on the couch! And you still go home with the same medal as everyone else!

And did I tell you that the last place finishers are cheered on and applauded for their extraordinary dedication and determination?? So don’t stress over your time or placement. Just enjoy the experience! 

Cover the Route Beforehand and Make the Best Use of It

If you feel the need, drive or study the route where the race will take place so you can get familiar with where you’ll need to push and where you can cruise. Lots of runners find this calming. Don't worry if you're not one of those runners though. I personally like surprises and rarely check the course beforehand. Finding the race start beforehand, though, will prevent you from getting lost on race morning! So don't neglect this part. *This is also a great time for your family to plan out their stops. Nothing encourages a runner more than having their family cheer them on and the Bass Pro course is super family friendly with parking lots along the course where your family can position themselves to be there as you pass by. Never underestimate the pep this will put in your step!

Get Ready the Night Before

Lay out all your gear and get as much sleep as possible- aim for eight hours. *Many runners won’t sleep well the night before a race. This is extremely common! Which is the reason the night before the night before is crucial for getting ample shuteye. Make plans to nail that part of your rest routine and then you won’t have to fret if race night has you tossing and turning like it does the majority of runners.

Don’t do Anything New

Race week isn’t the time to try new shoes, new food or drinks, new gear, or anything else you haven’t used on several runs. Stick with the routine that works for you. *It can be extremely tempting to wear that new shirt you picked up at the expo but don’t do it. Use the new shirt as a reward for crossing the finish line. I personally never wear a shirt until I’ve earned it and this helps me to push on when the race gets tough. Picture yourself wearing your race shirt with your feet up and that medal around your neck when the miles get hard… and remember, short term pain equals long term gain. In other words, the suffering won’t last but if you push through, the medal can hang on your wall forever!

Get Off Your Feet

In the days before you race try to stay off your feet as much as possible. Relax and leave the lawn mowing or shopping or sightseeing for after the race.

Put Your Hands on Your Bib

The night before the race lay out your clothes and fasten your bib on. The bib is the main one thing you'll need at the starting line. Don’t show up without it! *If this is your first race, make sure your bib is attached to the FRONT of your shirt or shorts (determine beforehand which location works best for you--I'm a fan of pinning it to the waistband of my shorts). There are several reasons why this is important and your timers and race director will be thankful for you doing it.

Race Day

Limit Your Sipping

Yes you need to stay hydrated, but no major drinking 30 minutes before the gun goes off; sip if your mouth is dry or it’s particularly hot out but resist the urge to guzzle down a lot of fluids to avoid stomach upset. Your best bet is to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking at every aid station. 

Hydration should be a priority at all times but especially the 48 hours before race day. Aim to consume at least half your bodyweight in ounces each day, especially in the days leading up to the race. So for instance, if you weigh 150 pounds, aim for a minimum of 75 ounces of calorie-free fluids like water each day. 

Arrive Early

Get to the race at least half an hour to an hour before the start so you’ll have time to calm your nerves, use the porta potty, and warm up. You don’t want to be running to the starting line and begin the race frantic. On a side note, get in line for the porta potty as soon as you arrive. You may not have to go when you get in line but chances are you will by the time it’s your turn.

Look at the Big Picture when Dressing

It may be cold at the start line but it will warm up quickly. The rule of thumb is to always dress for 20 degrees warmer than it is. But you don’t have to freeze while you wait! Wear extra layers that can be easily shed and tossed to the side as you complete a few miles and warm up. Hitting your local thrift store is always a great idea to save money on ‘disposable’ clothing. The good part is the clothing left behind will be donated back to local thrift stores making it a win for everyone.

Arm warmers are always a great idea when talking about easily sheddable layers. Buy a pair of knee high socks and cut out the toes out. This is a thrifty way to make your own arm warmers so you won’t feel bad about throwing them away. 

Set at Least Two Goals

Set one goal for a perfect race and another as a backup in case it’s hot, cold, windy, or it’s just not your day. If something makes your first goal impossible halfway through the race, you’ll need another goal to motivate you to finish strong. It’s best to also set a third goal that has nothing to do with your finishing time. This performance goal could be something like finishing, running up the hills rather than walking them, or eating the right foods at the right time and successfully avoiding GI distress! You’re in charge so set those goals. 

Fix it Sooner, Not Later… So Important!

If your shoelace is coming untied or is tied too tight, if you start to feel chafing early in the race, or you notice anything that is becoming a problem, just stop. Take a few moments to take care of the reason it’s starting to become troublesome before it becomes a real problem later in the race. 

Line up Early

You don’t want to be rushing to the starting line so don’t wait for the last call to get there.

Start Slow and Stay Even

Run the first 10 percent of the race slower than you normally would with the idea that you’ll finish strong. Don’t try to “bank” time by going out faster than your goal pace. If you do that, you risk burning out early. Try to keep an even pace throughout the race, and save your extra energy for the final stretch to the finish.

After the Race

Keep Moving

Get your medal and keep walking for at least 10 minutes to fend off stiffness and gradually bring your heart rate back to its resting state. Be sure to do some post-race recovery stretches to stretch out your legs, back, and hips. *Try to keep moving throughout the day as this will aid with recovery.

Refuel

There are usually snacks at the finish line but what the race provides may not sit well with you. To recover quickly, bring a snack with a combination of protein to rebuild muscles and healthy carbs to restock your energy stores. Consume it within 30 minutes of finishing the race. You might try a sports recovery drink, energy bar, or other packaged food that won’t spoil, spill, or get ruined in transit.

Get Warm

Change out of the clothes you ran in and get into dry clothes as soon as possible. After you cross the finish line your core temperature will start to drop fast and keeping sweaty clothes on will make you cold. *To add to your experience, plan to change clothes and then head back to the finish line to cheer on the other runners coming in until the last finisher crosses. This is so much fun that a big group of us do it every year.

The Next Day, Get Going

As sore as you might feel the day after the race it’s important to do some sort of non-impact activity like swimming, cycling, or working out on the elliptical trainer (light walking works too). The movement will increase circulation to your sore muscles and help you bounce back sooner. It may seem contrary but it's true! Just keep the effort level easy.

These tips can be the final additions to your training plan. Use them to optimize your effort and make race day the best it can be.

And there you have it friends. By utilizing these tips, you'll increase your chances of not only making it to the finish line but having a great time while doing it. Race day is less than two weeks away so get your game plan in place and be ready to execute it! See you soon!

Happy Running! 

Display Empathy for Others

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15 NKJV

In a story titled “Detroit marathon marked by love and loss: A finish-line embrace and a mile 5 tragedy” published yesterday, the reporter said, “History was made Sunday at the 47th annual Detroit Free Press Marathon presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, a storied Motor City institution going back to 1978, For the first time, a married couple, Sydney Devore-Bowman and Andy Bowman, both of Ferndale, each claimed victory in their respective marathons, embracing at the finish line. Amid the day's elation, tragedy crept in as a 57-year-old man competing in the marathon collapsed and died around the fifth mile marker in the Canadian stretch of the course. He was taken to the Windsor Regional Hospital, marathon officials said, where he was pronounced dead. ‘We're saddened by this and our hearts go out to (the family), said Aaron Velthoven, the marathon vice president and race director.”

And, you know, as this story clearly shows, there will be times, days, or events in people’s lives when they will have cause for weeping, rejoicing or doing both at the same time. And it’s at these times that we, as believers, have the opportunity to put our love into action by rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep. In this way we will communicate a sincere regard and concern for other people by recognizing and joining them in their highs and lows—showing the love of Christ by empathizing with them in both their elations and their tragedies. 

So strive to truly understand what other people are going through today my friend. And then put love into action by weeping with them in their time of despair and rejoicing with them in their time of celebration. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that as believers we will all experience both love and loss in this world. Help us to take the comfort that You give us during our times of rejoicing and weeping and to give that same comfort and encouragement to others during their times of rejoicing and weeping. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Put on Your Super Shoes

“For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.” Ephesians 6:25 NLT

In a story titled, “Which Shoe Was Ruth Chepngetich Wearing During Her World Record?” that made international headlines in the world of running a little over a week ago, Runner’s World reported that the same shoe the late Kelvin Kiptum wore to win last years Chicago Marathon in a world record time of 2:00:35 was the same brand and model Ruth Chepngetich, wore to break the women’s world record at Chicago this year….led by two pacemakers, Ruth went out at a blistering pace on Sunday. Despite slightly slowing down in the second half of the race, she found another gear and broke Tigst Assefa’s world record by nearly 2 minutes, running 2:09:56. Her shoe of choice? The Nike Alphafly 3.The marathoning super shoe, which was released in January of this year, retails for $285. 

And, you know, when it comes to wearing a ‘super shoe,’ the Bible tells believers that “for shoes,” they are to “put on the peace that comes from the Good News” so that they will be “fully prepared.” You see, the Gospel provides the footing and foundation for everything we do and allows us to confidently carry out our marching orders with our feet protected—something that’s of crucial importance because no matter how powerful the rest of a persons body is, if they are wounded in their body’s base, they can be rendered immovable and become easy prey for the enemy. Which is the very reason we must be shod with the Word so we can hold our position and fight our enemy the devil. Having the Word as our foundation will also allow us to speedily go where we are called at a moments notice, taking the Good News with us, even over rocky, slippery, and dangerous terrain. 

So don’t ever leave home without putting on your “super shoes” my friend (or without the FULL armor of God for that matter). Put in the work of knowing the Gospel and committing it to memory each and every day so that you will be “fully prepared” to quickly and courageously go where God calls you to go at a moments notice. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we must be “fully prepared” at all times if we are to make an impact in this world. Lord, cause us to see that the fields are ripe for harvest so that we will be ready to do our part in bringing in the lost. It’s in your precious names we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Christians must Hate Evil

“You who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 97:10 NKJV

In a bittersweet story published by the Minnesota Star Tribune on Wednesday, it was reported that The parents of a college runner from Eagan who died by suicide have settled their lawsuit that alleged their daughter’s cross-country coach at the time tormented her with demeaning comments in emails and texts about her weight and learning challenges. The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court in Florida in June 2023 by Ray and Lynne Pernsteiner, the parents of Julia Pernsteiner, 23, who died in her Jacksonville University dorm room on Nov. 8, 2021. Her death came two months after the coach kicked her off the team, the suit contended. Sadly, it was further reported that Pernsteiner and others on the team complained about Grigg to school leadership, but they “closed ranks around Grigg and refused to take any action...because of his success as a track coach.” The suit noted, “As long as Grigg’s teams were successful, JU tolerated his outrageous behavior toward team members.”

And, you know, as this story clearly shows, when people or organizations feel justified in tolerating bad behavior, innocent people suffer. Which is the very reason we are commanded to “hate evil!” This “hate” is an intense word that leaves absolutely no room for compromise. The Bible is very clear about that. Which means Christians are to loathe, detest, abhor, despise, and feel a violent revulsion to that which is opposed to God, that which is the opposite of God, and that which is contrary to God.

So refuse the temptation to tolerate, remain silent about, compromise with, or to cover up evil for any reason my friend. Doing so will not only jeopardize your integrity and discredit your witness, but will offend God and cause those without fault to endure needless and undeserved heartache, misery, sorrow, and sadness. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that Christians should never tolerate evil, but should expose it along with all those who delight in planning and doing harm to others. Help us to be people known for our integrity and unwillingness to do anything that goes contrary to your commands, as well as people who boldly shine the light on the deeds of darkness. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Children are Blessings not Burdens

“Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him.” Psalm 127:3 NLT

In a story published by WHNT Alabama yesterday, Nicole Drouin, the mother of Chandler Drouin, the runner who was injured in a hit and run over a week ago made a statement following her son’s surgery: Time seems to stand still and yet also it is a blink of an eye. One week since Alex called saying he was on his way to the hospital and that Chandler was hit by a car and broke his leg. So many unknowns as we walk this path but it is clear to see Gods hand in it all. We are so overjoyed to share that Chandler has made incredible progress in what we feel is a short time. He’s awake + talking, breathing on his own, eating, healing, started PT, can bear weight on his leg, and out of trauma ICU. We have only amazing things to say about the doctors and nurses but we are thrilled to head to the next step. It will still be a long road but we are happy to be able to navigate with Chandler here! He's not ready for visitors but please keep those prayers coming. Friendly reminder – Hug your ornery, headphone wearing, won’t smile for a picture but definitely willing to eat you out of house and home, teenagers (and kids). Even on the hard days they are still blessings from above.

And, you know, when it comes to kids being blessings from above, the Bible tells us that children are not only “a gift from the LORD” but are “a reward from him” as well. Which means children are never to be considered as burdens or inconveniences, as some in society see them. You see, from the moment of their conception, God forms each child in the image of Himself and so considers each child a priceless treasure. For this reason then, we must protect, love, cherish, and take care of the kids God has personally entrusted to us.

So be sure to hug your kids tight each and every day my friend, knowing that things can change in the blink of an eye. But, most importantly, be sure that you are teaching your children to love, honor, and obey God—so that, no matter what happens in this life, you’ll have the confident assurance that your children will one day return to the One who made them. 

Heavenly Father, thank You the precious gift of children. Lord, help us to value these little ones from the very moment they are conceived, knowing that they are a reward from God. And give us strength to fight for the unborn each and every day. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - It’s Taper 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 a lot of runners don’t like talking about, much less doing… tapering. Better known as the rest period between the culmination of marathon training and race day, tapering is the essential phase of rest that generally begins 2-3 weeks after a runner’s longest run (where those who are training for Bass Pro and/or Dogwood Canyon are right now) and can fill a runner with worry, anxiety or dread for many reasons. The main one usually being that taking time off before a big race will erase all of a runner’s hard work. But nothing could be further from the truth. In fact tapering will help cement all the hard work that was put in… allowing the mind and the muscles to heal and prepare for the race.

So let’s look at what tapering actually is and why it’s so important to practice it:

Tapering is the process of gradually decreasing the volume and intensity of your training in preparation for a race and is an essential part of every marathon and half marathon training plan. You might be wondering though, why is it important and why should I do it? Well…when you cut back (not completely cut out) the number of miles you run, your muscles can repair, and your glycogen stores can return to normal. This is important for absorbing your training and getting to the finish line with minimal pain and effort. During a taper, levels of muscle glycogen, enzymes, antioxidants, hormones, and other things that are depleted by a lot of exercise return to normal which should leave you refreshed and full of energy when you step up to the start line. Research has shown that tapering can also improve the function of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which can lead to faster race times and increased time to fatigue by up to 22%. So yes the benefits are very, very real.

That being said then, the top five main goals of marathon tapering are:

• Increasing muscle glycogen to ensure they return to normal and are loaded with fuel for race day
• Reducing the risk of overtraining right before a race
• Minimizing any stress on your mind and body, which allows you to be fresher.
• Increasing muscle recovery and reducing muscle fatigue
• Improving the function of fast-twitch muscle fibers to assist in faster race times.

Okay, so now that we’ve established why tapering is so important, let me give all you first timers and those runners that need a reminder a word of warning on the downside of cutting miles after so many weeks and months of training… tapering leaves racers with a lot of free time previously spent training. Which means you won’t be getting that long-run endorphin hit you’re used to and may start to go a little emotionally haywire—it's part of a phenomenon known as “taper madness” or “taper anxiety.” Scientists know it too, apparently: There’s a lot of research out there on how exercise—especially cardio—can benefit our mental health. An article published in AMAA Journal in 2008 concluded that "the reduced training involved in tapering prior to a race may actually worsen mood states." In other words, when you've been in a routine that provided structure, endorphins, and an overall sense of accomplishment for a while, something's bound to happen when you slow (way) down all of a sudden. For most runners, that "something" usually manifests in bouts of sadness, a general lack of motivation, and maybe even a little bit of irritability so be prepared. 

Now that you know what to expect then, remind yourself that tapering is a part of the process and anticipate the wave of anxiety coming. Remember that you aren’t sabotaging your hard work as you head into your taper and you'll already be ahead of the curve. And another reminder… even if you’re feeling less than your best during easy workouts as you endure this rest period, don’t be tempted to up the ante again. The hay’s already in the barn, there are no gains that can be made at this point, and the purpose of a taper is to allow the body to recover and rest, which it needs to do before the race. Stick to your schedule, which includes time for you to be gentle to your body so it can successfully go into beast mode when you step up to the start line.

On a side note, two other side effects commonly reported by runners who are tapering are cases of the sniffles and experiencing phantom pains. As far as any cold caused from all that you have put your body through in the last couple of months, chill, drink a ton of water, and relax as best you can. Let your body rest and allow it to recover. Stressing out isn’t going to help you heal. And as far as the aches and pains that come out of nowhere, these are usually caused by over thinking and stress. Think about it. When you spend all of your waking hours thinking and obsessing about your body and keeping it healthy, you will notice things for the first time and also have a natural fear that you have injured yourself in some way. A tiny twinge of pain might have you thinking, "Oh no! I have shin splints!" or "I felt my Achilles tendon tighten up just now. I have tendinitis!" Are you getting where I'm going with this? No matter what side effect you might be experiencing, my advice is this... calm down, get some rest, pray for the ability to see things as they are, and be thankful for all that you've been able to do and will do on race day.  

So there you have it friends. I sure hope that helps! I’ll be pacing the 5:30 marathon group with my sweet friend Jody Rhodes on November 3 and I can’t wait to see all of you. In fact, all of your Bass Pro pacers are looking forward to seeing everyone's grinning faces on race day! Meanwhile, smile big, embrace the taper, get your bags packed, and get ready for a great time! You'll soon be making your way down the streets of Springfield, MO. Happy Running!

Don’t Take Even One Day for Granted

“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” James 4:14 NIV

“Don’t take even one day for granted… not one moment… make the most of every day you’ve been given and run your race with all you have until you make it to the final finish line and hear the words, ‘Well done good and faithful servant’” Those were just some of the words Pastor Luke spoke at the funeral of Rudy Zevallos Jr., aka Junior, that my husband and I attended alongside some of the Frog Hill team yesterday. At only 18 years of age, this sweet young man with so much promise collapsed at the finish line of our Frog Hill Half Marathon on Saturday, October 5, having completed the goal he had set for himself to finish under two hours. And although Rudy’s untimely passing filled his family and friends with sorrow, we could all rejoice in the midst of our sadness knowing that the moment Rudy finished his earthly race here, he entered into the gates of Heaven… all because Rudy had made the choice to accept Jesus as his Savior. 

And, you know, as tragic as the passing of Rudy was, his early and unanticipated departure from this world serves as a reminder to all that no one knows “what will happen tomorrow.” Which begs the question James asked, “What is your life?” And the answer of course is that each one of us is “a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” Which is the very reason we should never fail to properly appreciate God and all that God has given us… namely the free gift of eternal life given through his son Jesus Christ, and our friends and family who are priceless gifts as well.  

So, in the words of Pastor Luke, don’t take even one day for granted my friend. Plan for the future, but live each day as it could be your last… serving the Lord with all your heart and loving others as you are called to do… knowing that in this way, you might lead the lost to Jesus so that they too can one day hear the words Rudy heard as he entered Heaven, “Well done good and faithful servant.” 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of eternal life that You have given to every person who makes the choice to accept You as their Savior. Thank You for the comfort that brings to Rudy’s family today as they hold onto the promise that their son is now with the Father. Lord, help us to live each day to the fullest, doing all that we can to lead the lost to You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Consider Your Present Troubles Small

“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” 2 Corinthians 4:17

As I set out early Saturday at 4:00 a.m. to complete the Heartland Hundred 100 mile race, I soon became a bit disheartened. Although the modified start (allowed for the older runners, normal start is at 6 a.m.) would allow me to get some miles in before the record setting temp of 92 engulfed us, three hours spent alone running the remote hills of Cassoday, Kansas before I would see sunlight or another human being brought down my spirits. To add to my discouragement, the course was much harder than I had expected it to be and the lack of encouragement from other runners took its mental toll. Throughout the rest of the day, the night, the next day, and the next afternoon, I encountered many more troubles (including doubt, discouragement, nausea, fatigue, and pain) that tempted me to walk away and accept the loss. But then, I commanded my heart to remember this… tomorrow would come either way. There was no stopping it. Which meant I could press on through to the finish line no matter how toilsome it might become to do so, or I could drop out and lose the opportunity to point someone to the foot of the Cross by giving God all the glory for completing something that could only be done by His strength. So I determined then to keep running with all my might—knowing that the length and the severity of the pain that was to come wouldn’t last long in view of eternity, no matter how it seemed in the moment. 

This was something Paul clearly understood when he wrote, “For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” You see, Paul was no stranger to affliction, having experienced beatings, floggings, hunger, thirst, false imprisonment, and shipwrecks amongst other things. But Paul had an eternal view that reminded him that he would one day be with Christ in heaven until the end of time. And because of that, he could, should, and would press on to finish the race. 

So, no matter what trial you might be facing today, consider it light and fleeting in the view of eternity my friend. This will allow you, like Paul, to boast in your sufferings so that God may be glorified through them. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that our present troubles are small and fleeting when compared with the glory You are producing through us. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Serve Christ all your Days

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV

In a heartening story published by WJAC News Wednesday, it was reported that later this month, runners (including George Etzweiler who hadn’t run a single mile until the age of 49) from across the nation will compete in central Pennsylvania in the annual Tussey Mountainback relay and ultramarathon at Rothrock State Forest. At 104 years old, Etzweiler leads the ‘old men of the mountain.’ The running group is made up of runners aged 65 and older, and they've competed in the 50-mile relay at the Tussey Mountainback marathon since 2007. Etzweiler says that when he first heard 50 miles, he wasn't interested, but after seeing other teams’ performances, he was more confident. "I started working on it. Found 8 people over 65 who were willing to run the race. And we're off and running,” Etzweiler said. Wow right? Etzweiler went on to say that human beings are meant for physical activity and encouraged anyone watching the news story to get some cardio in. Talk about leading by example!

And, you know, at a time when most people are becoming less active, George’s story serves as an example that we can and should be active our whole lives, especially when it comes to serving Christ. This was something Paul clearly understood as well, telling the Corinthians to follow his example as he followed “the example of Christ.” And that example of Christ that Paul followed and we are commanded to follow as well was doing whatever the Father asked of Him each and every day until His very last day. 

So remember that we are to serve Christ with our whole hearts and with our whole lives my friend. We must keep our eyes on Jesus and keep running the race until we reach that final finish line where we will hear the words, “Well done good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your master.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that from the cradle to the grave, we are your servants. Help us to understand that we are not are own and therefore should serve You all our days, doing all that You have commanded. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Check Your Spiritual Posture

“Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.” Psalm 105:4 NIV

In a story published by Runner's World Tuesday regarding the importance of maintaining proper posture, the writer said, "From looking down at your phone every few minutes to working on a laptop to slouching on the couch for hours, everyday life is rife with moments of poor posture. One of the most pronounced these days is kyphosis, also known as “text neck” or “tech neck.” This happens when your head is leaning forward in a way that elongates the back of the neck, which can lead to muscle strain, headaches, and even numbness or tingling in the hands and arms. Over time, text neck can cause exaggerated cervical spine curvature even during non-tech activities like walking, sitting, or running—eventually, that can contribute to chronic neck pain, according to new research in the Proceedings in the National Academy of Sciences." Neel Anand, M.D., director of spine trauma at Cedars-Sinai Spine Center in Los Angeles said, "There’s a wide range of what’s considered normal in terms of spine curvature, including the neck. But signs like tingling, tightness, headaches, etc. are often early indicators that you’re out of alignment."

And, you know, when it comes to proper spiritual posture, the psalmist wisely said that we are to “Look to the LORD and his strength” and to “seek his face always.” You see, when you and I look to the world more than we look to the Lord, we can easily begin to spiritually slouch by compromising our integrity in an attempt to be more like the world—and “over time” find ourselves completely out of alignment with God. Which is the very reason we must be vigilant in spotting any early indicators that we might be backsliding, such as a loss of love for reading the Word and spending time with the Lord and his people—and correct the cause by turning our eyes back to Him. 

So check your spiritual posture and check it often my friend. Getting out of alignment will not only cause you to fall into sin but will lead to chronic pain. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that poor spiritual posture is something that happens over time when we let down our guard and take our eyes off You. Help us to then to continually and vigilantly assess our spiritual posture so that we won’t fall into sin or be led astray. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Run and Race Like a Kid

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about why we could all benefit from running like kids once in a while. This was something I was thinking about as I watched the 100+ kids cross the start and finish line of the 5k race I was blessed to direct on Friday night (Bass Pro also has a 5k race!). There were young kids there with their parents, older kids there with their friends, and several cross country teams there to run as a group. Some ran fast and some ran slow but they all seemed to run with joy. This radiant enthusiasm for life and happiness is something kids are known for, for many different reasons. But when it comes to running with joy as adults, here are a few reasons every “seasoned “ runner should run like a kid as they approach their final weeks of Bass Pro and/or Dogwood training. 

Kids don't take it too seriously

Whereas adults might find themselves obsessing over their finishing times, kids just want to run. Which is the very reason they might stop to inspect a flower, stare up at the clouds, or to pet a dog along their route. Time isn't the important thing to kids. Enjoying the moment is. Take the time occasionally to literally stop and smell the roses and reflect on how good life is. 

Kids believe they can do anything

The beauty of being young is that kids haven’t lived long enough to know much about failure; to a kid, the possibilities are endless and there isn’t anything they can’t do. If you ask a kid how far and fast they can run, they’ll likely tell you, “A hundred miles an hour” and probably believe it. Next time you head out for a run, plan a longer one than usual. You may not be able to run 100 miles in one hour, but you can certainly go a little further or faster than you did yesterday once you take it less seriously and just run. 

Kids run in packs and cheer each other on

Although each of the cross country runners was using the race as a practice run, they started the race together before getting into an all out sprint. When the fastest runners finished, they went back and finished again with their teammates. Some of them going back three or four times until their last teammate completed the race. It was a heartening scene to watch and a great reminder that we can go at our own pace and still finish as a "group." 

Kids get over failures and try again

When kids don’t succeed at something, they don’t beat themselves up. Sure, they may sulk, but then they try again. If they lose a race on the playground or at a track meet, you can bet they’ll immediately demand a rematch and give it their all. So the next time a race doesn’t go the way you want it to, don’t dwell on all the reasons you think you messed up; go home and sign up for the next race and plot your comeback.

Kids run for fun

For a kid, running is just plain fun. They don’t run to stay fit or hit a personal best; kids run to play tag, to chase the dog in the yard, or to catch the ice cream truck. Channel their spirit and do something fun on your next run. Take your pooch to the park or run with your best friend before going out for coffee (or ice cream since you’re channeling a kids inner spirit). Speaking of ice cream, don’t knock running after the ice cream truck like kids do—that’s just fun no matter how old you are.

Kids enjoy fartleks... even when they don't know what they are or that they’re doing them

As I watched the kids warming up, I laughed as I saw them chase one another at full speed, and then upon catching their teammate stop to catch their breath, laugh and joke around, only chase one another again. 

The word ‘fartlek’ is a Swedish term which means ‘speed play’. It’s a running session that combines speed and endurance. The principle behind fartlek training is to enable the body to adapt to various speeds, conditioning the body to become faster over the longer distance.It’s typically done by choosing an object to sprint to then allowing your heart rate to go down before doing it again. 

Kids gain the benefits of fartleks without the stress of “training.” They merely have fun which means their workouts don’t feel like workouts. 

And there you have it friends. There are so many reasons we should run like kids every once in a while. It will remind us that running is not something we have to do, it’s something we choose to do. And since we choose it, shouldn’t we choose to have fun and find joy in it?  Of course! So channel your inner child from time to time and don’t take it so seriously. Just get out there and have fun! You’ll be so glad you did. Happy Running!

Be Prepared for Race Day

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.’” John 16:33 ESV 

In a story titled “BYU grad wins St. George Marathon men's race; repeat-runner breaks own course record in women's race,” published by St. George News out of Utah over the weekend, it was reported that conditions could not have been better Saturday morning for the 48th running of the St. George Marathon. Officials planned for over 8,000 participants in the Mayor’s Walk, the Half-Marathon and the full St. George Marathon, known to runners as one of the faster 26.2-mile courses in the country. In the end, the elite men’s division was won by a former Brigham Young University track star, and the elite women’s title was claimed by a repeat champion who broke her own course record in an emphatic victory.

And, you know, it’s no surprise that a course record was broken Saturday and that victory was obtained, because it’s easy to run well when the “conditions could not have been better.” But longtime runners and mature Christians know that this is rarely the case. Conditions are almost never perfect on race day. They know they must train for hard conditions to be ready for hard conditions—so they won’t be caught unaware or unprepared and be tempted to drop out of the race. Which is the very reason Jesus said to the disciples, “in this world you WILL have tribulation.” It wasn’t a matter of IF they would encounter “these things” but WHEN. Jesus was reminding them that the race of life would not be easy—but since He has already “overcome the world,” victory was a sure thing if they would continue to press on. 

So as we as Christians begin to face more and more trouble, trials, and tribulation in the coming days before the return of the Savior, let us take heart my friend. Jesus gave us everything we need to be prepared for the battle, so that in Him we “may have peace” and press on to victory. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for telling us everything we should expect to encounter in the days ahead. Just as a runner checks the race conditions and the forecast so they can train for the conditions they will encounter in a race, help us to be as diligent in checking the Word and training ourselves to use it so we can run with endurance until we reach the finish line. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!