Share the Comfort

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

In a story titled “Runner struggling with eating disorder felt ‘less alone’ after opening up,” the writer said an advocate for mental health surrounding eating disorders says it’s important to open up and get help if you’re struggling. Grandville native Rachael Steil was a successful high school and college cross-country runner who struggled with an eating disorder. “I had always had some body image issues. Growing up, I think that’s sort of natural — not that you want that to happen,” Stiel told News 8 Monday. She said she started cutting calories when she was a senior in high school and the eating disorder worsened with the big life change of going to college… She eventually told her mother about how she was struggling with food and then posted a blog sharing her experience. “So many other people reached out and I felt so much less alone,” she said. She said athletes are two to three times more likely to struggle with an eating disorder…Steil not only wrote a book chronicling her trial, but is now a coach who speaks about her struggles to others.

And, you know, when it comes to sharing our struggles with others in an attempt to remind them that not only are they not alone in their fight but that there is hope in overcoming their struggle and comfort in the midst of their battle, the Bible tells us that God, who is called “the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort… comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” This means one great purpose of God in comforting us is that it enables us to bring that same comfort to others. You see, when believers go through difficulties and trials and are delivered by the hand of God from them, they aren’t to keep it to themselves but are to share how God brought them through it. In doing so, they bring hope to those experiencing the same struggle. 

So, if God has delivered you from affliction, addiction, or adversity today, say so my friend! Don’t keep what the Lord has done to yourself. By sharing what the Lord has done for you, you remind others that they are not alone and that the Father of compassion can do it for them too—which will fill them with the comfort and peace that only the Lord can provide. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the comfort You provide comes not only from the Holy Spirit but also through fellow believers who provide others with hope through their testimonies. Lord, help us to be transparent with our struggles that we might redeem our pain by sharing the way You always turn for good those things the enemy means for evil. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Volunteers Rock!

 

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let’s get started by talking about two things that go together like peanut butter and jelly… racing and volunteering. Why? Because races can’t take place without volunteers and because most of the volunteers are racers themselves. Why? Because racers enjoy running and reaching finish lines as much they enjoy helping others run and reach finish lines. This is why you will regularly see Bass Pro Fitness Series runners both participating in and volunteering at local Springfield events and beyond.

See those smiling faces in the photo above? Those selfless souls not only helped me get to the finish line of the Frisco Railroad Run Saturday, they helped a record number of other runners make it there as well. Between their encouraging words, their keeping the snacks coming and the personal filling of the runners’ hydration devices, these volunteers made the race better for everyone! Just ask any of the runners who were there.

Which is the very reason I asked them to share with you the reason(s) they volunteer. And why you should too! After all, we can’t have races without smiling faces. So without further ado… check out what these people who are worth their weight in gold had to say:

I volunteer because I have been that person on more than one occasion whose race was literally saved by a knowledgeable and caring volunteer who knew exactly what to say and do to fix an issue I was having. I know how important it is, particularly in ultras, to have those people out there, supporting not only runners but their crews as well. And these events wouldn't even happen without the tireless efforts of race directors and their armies of volunteers making sure things go off as planned on race day. Volunteering and knowing you were possibly instrumental in helping someone achieve his or her goal is richly rewarding and I highly recommend the experience to anyone who wants to witness some of the best of humanity out on a race course! - Stephanie Lane

Because i know how much work it takes to get through a long hard run….and being a part of someone’s success is a great feeling! I love seeing people do dumb-hard things!!!! ♥️ - Jill Brockman

I volunteer to give back to the running community. But mostly because I truly enjoy helping runners get to that finish line. Whether it is a cold towel to refresh their face or massaging a cramped muscle. I hope I bring a smile or bit of relief to them when they are at my aide station. I use humor quite a bit to ease the seriousness of their mind when the dig gets deep. But I can also slap them on the butt and tell them to keep moving and get out of my aide station! - Heidi Thomas

I started volunteering after my race at Frisco in 2023. It was at that race that I myself experienced the difference that volunteers make when doing the long distances and how they can be the entire reason you finish. I wanted to be able to help other runners, especially the back of the pack runners, meet their goals and succeed. Plus for them to feel less alone in the struggle. For me it was about giving back and helping in the same way that I was helped in my first ultra. I know all too well what it can feel like to hit the pain cave and have nobody there to support you, so for me it was putting myself in a position to be that support in whatever way a runner needs so they don’t feel alone in that moment. - Makayla Cornelius

Absolutely love helping others! Being in an aid station is the give back to the running community that gives my huband and I inspiration to be better! Runners are the most positive people in the world! I leave an aid station feeling accomplished and ready to take on my next goal! Plus, it is a fun fun, fun time! If you work with me, you should know I love to laugh! I ❤️ crewing runners and aid stations! I will take great care of you!! And then we might become friends! #KINGCREWYOU - Lisa King

“so I don’t have to run” - Dylan McGuire

I volunteer for all the good reasons already mentioned. And for the leftover cold pizza. - Chris Hines

I enjoy playing a small role and watching people achieve their goals. I love seeing all the different levels of goals that runners have from a 5k and don't die to 200 miles. - David Murphy

And there you have it friends. Running makes a person happy but so does volunteering! So look for opportunities to bless others (click here for some awesome BPFS opportunities) knowing that you yourself will be blessed in the process. Happy Running!

Timing is Everything

“For I do not want to see you now and make only a passing visit; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. But I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, even though many oppose me.” 1 Corinthians 16:7-9 BSB

In a story published by the AP News over the weekend, it was reported that Kenyan runner Sabastian Sawe was the winner of the prestigious London Marathon. The Kenyan runner made a solo breakaway with more than 10 kilometers left and never looked like wavering in the sunshine as he cruised to victory in the London Marathon on Sunday. Sawe pulled away from a leading group of nine runners about 90 minutes into the race and finished in 2 hours, 2 minutes and 27 seconds. Sawe made his move when his rivals slowed down at a drinks station — opting not to take any water despite temperatures that crept toward 18 C (64) as the elite runners were finishing. “I saw that was my opportunity to push,” Sawe said. “And I ran well.” So well that the only rival who was able to give chase was Jacob Kiplimo, the half marathon world record holder who was making his full marathon debut. But Kiplimo was never able to get close to erasing the gap, and the Ugandan finished 70 seconds back in second place.

And, you know, as this story shows, the timing of a person’s actions can determine their success. Sawe saw an opportunity to “push” and immediately took it. The apostle Paul also knew that timing was everything and, although he wanted to go through the region of Macedonia to spend “some time” in Corinth, he said he would only do so “if the Lord” permitted it. Meanwhile, Paul would stay in Ephesus as the Lord directed him because an opportunity or “great door for effective work” had opened. Paul knew that following the Lord’s plan was more important than following his own which is the very reason he would stay in the place God wanted him to. One more thing Paul knew was this… opposition most always accompanies opportunities (as we can see in Acts 19). And when (not if) this happens, believers need to “push” through the many that might oppose them.  

So, model the example of Paul who modeled the example of Jesus my friend—remembering that timing is everything. Stay where God tells you to stay until He tells you to go… and then keep going until He tells you to stop, no matter what opposition you might face along the way. It will be worth it in the end when you can confidently declare, “I ran well.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that your ways are higher than ours so that we will trust and follow your plan rather than our own. Help us to recognize the opportunities You give us to preach the Gospel Lord and to be discerning as to when we are to push or to pause. Help us to run the race set before us well so that we might bring You glory. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Earnestly Pray Without Ceasing

“So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.” Acts 12:5 NIV

As I crossed the finish line of Saturday’s Frisco Railroad Run 50 mile race, I immediately hugged my husband and began to cry over the goodness of God. For more than ten hours I had been in silent prayer asking the Lord over and over again to give me the strength to continue running the race, and He had once again proved Himself faithful. Not only did the Lord answer that prayer, though, He provided cloud cover and cool temps for the entire race just as I had petitioned for as well. If that wasn’t enough to bring me to tears, what my husband said after I had regained my composure and accepted my hard-earned buckle, had me sobbing once again. “You’re going to be so happy honey,” he said. “Dylan is getting baptized!” “What? Are you kidding?” No,” he said with a huge smile on his face. “It’s true!” “That’s awesome!” I replied enthusiastically. “Praise the Lord for this answered prayer!” As we continued to celebrate God for His faithfulness in answering our prayer for our dear friend and fellow ultrarunner of many years to go all in for Jesus, we vowed to continue praying earnestly for Dylan (that he would continue to grow in knowledge and faith) and all the others on our prayer list (some of whom have been on there for countless years), no matter how long it took for those prayers to be answered. 

And, you know, when it comes to prayers, one thing is certain… believers should NEVER stop praying. Especially when they consider that some prayers, like the church’s prayer for Peter’s release from prison, happen quickly, while other prayers, like Hannah’s prayer for a son, aren’t answered for years. In fact, the church’s prayer for Peter was answered so quickly that when Peter arrived at Mary’s house (after the angel led him out), where the church was gathered and petitioning on his behalf, the servant girl who heard Peter’s voice at the door was so surprised that she forgot to let him in the house. 

So, whether you’ve been praying for someone or something for a day, a month, a year, or even a decade or more, don’t stop praying my friend. Especially when it comes to the salvation of a loved one! It’s that important!

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that some prayers are answered quickly while other prayers take time, patience, and consistent petition before they’re answered. Help us to understand that Your timing is perfect Lord so we won’t lose hope or give up when we aren’t seeing results. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

*Sweet Larry and I had the blessing of witnessing Dylan’s baptism (and many others!) yesterday and it was absolutely beautiful! Heaven was rejoicing along with us when he came up out of the water! You can view it here at about the 1 hour 12 minute mark. I hope it inspires you to accept Jesus as your Savior if you have not already done so. 

We Work for the Lord

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23-24 NIV

In a story titled “Local runner returns home after competing in prestigious marathon,” WAPT16 Mississippi News reported that local runner, Gabrielle Hodson, was back home after competing in one of the country's most prestigious and historically significant races: The Boston Marathon. Flowood native Gabrielle Hodson isn't new to marathons, but it was her first time competing in this race. Hodson says training for Boston was like working a full-time job. She ran at least 50 miles a week. But in the end, she says it was worth it. Although this was her first time competing in the Boston Marathon, she told us she plans to continue training to qualify again next year.

And, you know, when it comes to working full-time, the Bible tells us that whatever we do, we are to work at it with all our heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since we know that we will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. In writing that verse Paul was encouraging believers to approach their work with enthusiasm and passion, treating it as an act of service to God rather than merely a job done for human masters. This principle, you can be sure, applies to all aspects of our lives—from employment to household tasks, and even to how we treat others. You see, believers are called to put their full effort and dedication into their work and even into their training because, ultimately, it is the Lord Christ they are serving. Which means our work is valued by God and should always be done to please God. Do you just love that or what? 

So, whatever you do, do it with your whole heart so as to bring glory to God’s name my friend. And remember that serving Him is a full-time job. No matter what we’re doing, we’re always on the clock and need to labor accordingly, knowing it will be worth it in the end. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that if we are your followers, we are to serve You at all times, in all places, and in all ways. Help us to understand Lord that we may not see our rewards for faithful service to You here but will be rewarded when we reach the other side, which means our hard work will be worth it in the end. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!

Keep your Eyes on what is Unseen

“while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal” 2 Corinthians 4:18 NKJV

In a heartwarming story published by BOSTON.com Tuesday, it was reported that: As Brazilian runner Pedro Arieta, 34, headed down Boylston Street, his quest to finish the 2025 Boston Marathon was nearly complete. Arieta and his wife, professional runner Luíza Cravo de Azevedo, were both running their hardest on Monday. With the finish line in sight, Arieta’s personal goal of 2:40:00 was still attainable. But as dozens of elite runners cruised past without a second glance, Arieta put aside his personal aspirations and stopped to help Shawn Goodwin, 35, of Boston, get back on his feet. Several spectators posted videos of Arieta’s act of kindness, which quickly amassed millions of views on social media. On Tuesday morning, Arieta, who ultimately finished with a time of 2:41:29, shared a post on Instagram detailing his experience. “The Boston Marathon surprised me in more ways than one,” Arieta wrote. “It was impossible to run past someone who needed help reaching their dream finish line and not help them complete the Boston Marathon.” Cravo, who finished with a time of 2:52:36, commented about how proud she was of her husband. “The essence of sport to me is that right there,” Cravo wrote. “You dreamed about a sub 2:40 and when you were ALMOST there, God used you to lose a few minutes and do something with much more meaning.”

Do you just love that or what? Because Pedro was obedient to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, God used him to do something that had much more meaning than reaching his time goal—something that could be seen but had no eternal impact. And this is the very reason Paul exhorts every believer to keep their focus on “the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” In other words, rather than “looking at the things which are seen” which are the momentary, visible things of this world like personal goals and the acquisition of personal belongings, we are to always look to the Lord and seek His will above all else. This is what truly defines success. Furthermore, Pedro’s finish time will never be remembered but what he did for a complete stranger will. You see, ONLY what we do for Christ will have lasting significance. Paul clearly understood this and so considered any other pursuit to be rubbish. 

C.T. Studd was also a man who knew this. Born into wealth and destined for affluence, Studd’s life changed during college at Cambridge after he gave his life to Jesus. He was said to be the Michael Jordan of cricket in his day. And while many expected for him to play professionally and return to London to embrace a life of fame and fortune, Studd chose to forsake the world (things which are seen) for the sake of participating in God's global purposes (things which are not seen) and penned these precious words…

Only one life, ’twill soon be past,

Only what’s done for Christ will last. And when I am dying, how happy I’ll be, If the lamp of my life has been burned out for Thee.
So, make it your mission to live on fire for Jesus my friend—always remembering that true success is measured by how we served Christ not by what we’ve achieved or acquired. After all, our service to Him is the only thing that will last for eternity. 
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we must keep our eyes on what is unseen rather than what is seen so that we might always view life through an eternal lens. Help us to give up our will each and every day Lord to do your will that the lamp of our lives might be burned out for thee. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 
Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Key Lessons from the Boston Marathon

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about what took place on Monday... the Boston Marathon! Known for its demanding course and rich history, this iconic race (which I've had the blessing of running several times) can teach us several valuable lessons that are applicable to various aspects of life apart from running, including personal development, relationships, and resilience. Which means, there are takeaways for everyone--runners and nonrunners, and short distance runners and long distance runners. Because the Boston Marathon (and the marathon in general) highlights the importance of preparation, perseverance, staying positive even in the face of challenges, and cultivating strong connections, we can learn from it. The marathon experience also underscores the need for mental fortitude, focusing on the fundamentals, and being able to execute your race day plan even when you're not in the mood and/or things are not going as planned. 

So without further ado, check out some "Key Lessons from the Boston Marathon":

Preparation is crucial:
Training for a marathon, including consistent running, cross-training, strength training, and proper nutrition, is essential for success. There's no substitute for preparation!

Perseverance and discipline:

Overcoming the physical and mental challenges of a marathon requires discipline and the ability to persevere even when faced with fatigue or discomfort.

Staying positive:
Maintaining a positive attitude and mindset is crucial for navigating the marathon's demanding course and overcoming setbacks. 

Mental resilience:
Developing the ability to think through problems, remain calm under pressure, and execute your plan despite the setbacks is a valuable skill that’s applicable to many situations. 

Focus on fundamentals:

Marathon training emphasizes focusing on the fundamentals, like consistently running for extended periods, and not getting bogged down in distractions. 

Cultivating connections:

The marathon experience can foster meaningful connections with other runners, supporters, and those who encourage and offer support. 

Resilience in the face of adversity:
The Boston Marathon, especially after the 2013 bombing, serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and the ability to come together in the face of adversity. Having experienced this race before the bombings (2010) and then coming back the year after, I saw how the bombings changed the event and the people. At first, runners seemed hesitant to return and then they were (like me) filled with a passion and a sense of urgency to get back on the course to show that evil would not be allowed to prevail. That’s resilience! 

Importance of planning:
Preparing for a marathon requires careful planning, including selecting the right training plan, equipment, and nutrition. 

Adaptability:

Being prepared for changing conditions, whether it's weather or unexpected challenges, is essential for success. Des Linden is the perfect example of adaptability. Although she came in 17th place this year, in 2018 she won the race in memorable fashion, outlasting the field in a frigid Nor’easter to become the first American woman in 33 years to win the race. She also teaches us a lesson in bowing out of something with grace. Earlier in the day, Linden, 41, announced that this year’s Boston race would be her last marathon as a professional. Ending at Boston was fitting as she started her marathoning career there in 2007. After embracing her husband at the finish line, her teammates (pictured above) congratulated her and deemed her the "queen" of the Boston Marathon. 

The power of community:

The Boston Marathon is a community event, with a large crowd of spectators cheering on the runners, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared experience. 

And there you have it friends. Those are just a few things that a person can learn from the Boston Marathon. But truly, there are lessons to be learned from any marathon (including the half marathon distance). As with life, running will always throw you curve balls and put obstacles in your way. But when you realize what a gift running is, you know that stopping is never an option and you do whatever it takes to make it to the finish line, making yourself more resilient, grateful, and gritty in the process. So get to training so you'll be prepared to step up to the start line of the Bass Pro Marathon (which I personally consider a marathon worthy of being added as an 8th major) or the Cohick Half Marathon in November friends. You'll be so glad you did!!

Happy Running!

 

There is Abundant Proof

“After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.” 1 Corinthians 15:6 NIV

In a story titled “Buzzard repeatedly attacks terrified runner for 10 minutes,” the writer said, “This is the terrifying moment a man was repeatedly attacked by a bird of prey - forcing him to duck and run for nearly a kilometre to escape. Alexis Touchard, 30, from Cuges-les-Pins, France was out running near his home when a buzzard struck him with such force it knocked one of his headphones out. Alexis initially thought a tree branch had hit him but quickly realized he was being targeted by a large bird of prey.” In the video that Alexis was able to take, it showed the buzzard watching him and repeatedly swooping down to attack. Since buzzards are generally not aggressive towards humans and are more likely to be scavengers than predators, it was good that Touchard had video proof as his story might not have been believed otherwise. 

And, you know, when it comes to stories that might not be believed without visual evidence, many doubt that the resurrection of Jesus Christ ever happened. But the truth is, there was and is an abundant amount of visual proof that Jesus Christ did indeed rise from the grave on the third day. Not only did Jesus appear to the disciples after coming out of the tomb but “after that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time,” most of whom were still living at the time Paul wrote those words. And not even one of those witnesses ever denied seeing the risen Savior! Furthermore, the disciples were willing to die martyr’s deaths for their faith—something only a thoroughly confident and wholeheartedly convinced person would ever do—and science, itself, has never been able to refute that it  happened. 

So, don’t just celebrate the Good News on Easter my friend. Celebrate it each and every day by praising the Lord for the death, burial, and resurrection that provided eternal life to all those who choose to accept the One who rose from the grave to conquer sin and death once and for all.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the abundant proof that exists that shows beyond a doubt that Jesus not only walked among us but was crucified, put in a borrowed grave, and rose again on the third day. Lord, in light of that great sacrifice, help us to live in fire for Yoi and do all we can to fulfill the Great Commission. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

There are Benefits to Being in a Community

“Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.” Philippians 2:2 NLT

In a timely story regarding Marathon Monday (aka the Boston Marathon), the Wheeling Register reported that a trio of local Ohio runners (Nikkol Zanes, Thomas Karrasch and Cole Wright) will step up to the start line of the world’s most iconic 26.2 mile race today. As someone who’s had the blessing of running the Boston Marathon three times, I will tell you that qualifying for a slot in what runners have deemed “the Super Bowl of running” is never easy. The three runners agreed and went on to say that the dedication and time needed to get to the point they had reached was made easier by the community of like-minded individuals with them each step of the way-literally. “Without these guys helping and the whole group, the community- I mean, we have a pretty big running community group here,” Karrasch said. “I run with Nikkol, she’s part of it. Cole’s a big runner. We see him out there all the time passing. It’s a great community as far as running goes.”

And, you know, the community of running isn’t the only place where surrounding yourself with like-minded people will benefit both the individual and the group as a whole, the community of Christ-followers will also benefit from it. This is the very reason Paul, when exhorting the church at Philipi to take on the attitude of Christ, said, “Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.” In the race to the finish line, Paul wanted them to understand the enormous benefits that came by regularly fellowshipping with one another—fellowshipping that would help them each achieve the goal of becoming more like Jesus each and every day because of the love, edification, encouragement, and accountability the group provided. 

So, as someone who not only runs with fellow believers but makes time to fellowship with them often, I will tell you this… your chances of reaching the finish line in your spiritual race and grabbing hold of the prize are exponentially increased when you surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your love for Jesus Christ. A community of believers has the power to do that. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we were never meant to run this race alone. Help us to understand that we are to encourage, uplift, support, and run alongside our brothers and sisters at every opportunity that we might not neglect meeting together as we are commanded to do and will do it even more so as we discern the imminent return of Jesus. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running

Jesus Loved us Despite our Doubts

“Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’” John 20:27 NIV

If you’re like most runners, you’ve probably wondered whether your hips are too tight or too weak, especially if your gait is off or you’re experiencing any pain in the hip flexor area. Thankfully, Runner’s World posted an article recently that addressed this issue, explaining that strong and healthy hip flexors bring the leg forward easily and powerfully while you run, so if those muscles are tight or weak, you won’t run as efficiently. Instead, you may feel pain in your hips during or after your workout, and tight or weak hip flexors can start a chain reaction of poor mechanics throughout your body that end up manifesting themselves as injuries. Fortunately, there’s a quick test to determine if your hips are weak or tight. Called the Thomas Test, this simple and effective test diagnoses weak or tight hips. Because there are five muscles in the hip flexor group—the psoas major, iliacus, rectus femoris, sartorius, and pectineus—the results of the Thomas Test can help determine which specific muscle needs to be strengthened or stretched to support the hip joints in your quest to run pain-free. That’s great news for those runners who might have ‘doubted’ that the diagnosis and treatment for hip issues could be so easy. 

Speaking of doubt, as we get ready to celebrate the death, burial and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ, it’s a great time to be thankful for the kindness and compassion that Jesus had for those who disbelieved Him—kindness and compassion He showed to the apostle Thomas (aka Doubting Thomas) when He “doubted” the testimonies of those who had seen Jesus and said “We have seen the Lord!” Rather than taking them at their word and believing that Jesus had come back as He said He would, Thomas said “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” The Bible tells us that “A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!’” Is that a beautiful story of Jesus’ love or what? He could have chided Thomas for his lack of faith but chose, instead, to give him the reassurance he longed for. 

Isn’t that just like our God though? From the beginning of the biblical narrative in Genesis, God planned for the redemption of fallen mankind through a promised Savior—redemption that was free to all who would turn from their wrongdoing, doubt or denial and place their trust in Him. Why? Because God so loved the world…

So, let us begin this Good Friday by thanking God for giving us his one and only Son my friend. And then, in light of that priceless gift, let us spread the Good News of the Gospel so that all would come to know Jesus as their Savior and gain the eternal life that Jesus promises all those who accept the free gift of salvation.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for making a way when there seemed to be no way and for loving us when we didn’t love You back. Thank You also Lord for extending compassion on us when we doubted You as Thomas did, denied You as Peter did, and deserted You as the other apostles did. As we honor the death and burial of Jesus and then celebrate His glorious resurrection, help us to be so overwhelmed with awe and gratitude that we can’t help but tell others about the amazing love and compassion of the Father and invite them to experience it for themselves. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Avoid a Half Hearted Commitment

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Matthew 16:24 NIV

In a story titled “Meet the local runner a marathon away from making it 6 majors. Next stop: Boston” published earlier this week, Albert Lew said that when he was growing up in Monterey Park and Alhambra, he did not consider himself an athlete. Instead, he focused those early years on academics. Fast forward into adulthood, and Lew, of Monterey Park, has found a passion in running – around the world. Now, he wants that passion to inspire others, whatever the long journey in their own lives. Lew, 40 will run the Boston Marathon on Monday, thus becoming one of just a handful of people in the world who have participated in all six of the Abbott World Marathon Majors.“I basically am doing something that I don’t think has been done within my smaller cities,” said Lew, who has run the five other major marathons in Berlin, Chicago, London, New York and Tokyo over the past two years. “It’s quite a feat … Trying to do marathons is not an easy task,” said Lew, who hopes that he can inspire other people to follow their dreams in whatever area.

And, you know, as someone who runs marathons frequently, I will agree with Lew that completing a 26.2 mile race is never an easy task. It requires a lot of discipline and a lot of training. But it’s well worth it in the end. In the same way, heeding the command to deny yourself and take up your cross to follow Jesus will not be an easy task, to say the least, but it will be well worth it in the end. You see, as Jesus told the disciples, those who truly want to follow Him must be ready and willing to face suffering and even death. Jesus wasn’t asking them, and He isn’t asking us, for a half-hearted commitment. Those who want to follow Jesus must make a full commitment and must daily surrender their own will do to His will—never wavering in their support and never compromising on the Truth. 

So, knowing that only a relative handful of people in the world will ever have the distinction of being called faithful followers of Jesus Christ, decide this day whom you will serve. It’s either the world or Jesus my friend. Our Savior will not accept half-hearted commitment, but will greatly reward all those who run according to the rules and.make it to the finish line. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for clearly telling us what it takes to be counted as a true follower of Jesus. Help us to understand that any suffering, persecution, or hardship that we might be called to endure for His sake in this life will be light and momentary compared with the eternal benefits we will receive in the next life if we stay faithful. Give us the strength to run with endurance until the very end Lord, that we might grab hold of the eternal prize and inspire others to do the same. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Embrace Running in New Places

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let’s get started by talking about one of the greatest perks of traveling to new places… running in new places! This was a thought I had Saturday morning as I discovered a hidden treasure of a trail in Hinesville, Ga while my husband and I were on vacation visiting family. Free to go wherever the open road took me, I veered left and right with no destination in mind except ending my run in the parking lot of our hotel. 

As I said before, this carefree approach to running led me to a place of peace and solitude in the middle of a bustling downtown city. It wasn’t a very long path but it was quaint, quiet, nestled by trees, and refreshing to the soul. As I ran a few laps around the trail I couldn’t help but think that moments like this are why I make it a point to go running whenever and wherever I travel. The trail was unknown to me, and as I continued running around the city, I knew that it didn’t matter which road I chose: they would all lead to places unknown. Is that a reason to embrace running in new places or what? 

Additionally, I’ve come to learn that in a new city or town, getting your feet on the pavement opens up a place like no other mode of transportation can. Once you get in the rhythm, running offers a way to see a new place that’s faster than walking, simpler than biking, more intimate than driving -- and, for entertainment, cheaper than going shopping or going out for coffee. Just going for a jog is an all-purpose travel hack with benefits that go far beyond just staying fit. And the only equipment it requires is the right clothing and the right shoes (I was wearing my HOKA Arahi’s of course). Throw in some stretching and body weight exercises when you’re done and you’ll get in a full workout. 

Now, keeping up on fitness may not seem like a big deal if you’re just taking a weekend trip. But if you’re staying for three days or more and/or training for a race, you’ll want to keep the momentum going so that you don’t lose any endurance. 

Not only that, depending on what you’re doing or who you’ll be seeing while on vacation, keeping your morning run schedule will ensure that you have the energy to do all the things on your “to do” list and have the mental peace that comes along with exercise so you’ll better react to others. 

And, there you have it friends. There are so many great reasons to run in any city or town that life takes you to. Many of my most favorite running memories were made exploring new sites, spots, and spaces I never would have seen without being carefree and setting out with no planned route. From crowded city streets to remote wooded trails and high mountain peaks, running in new places has served to feed my adventurous spirit and remind me that running truly is a gift. So, when heading out of town, be sure to grab your running shoes and your adventurous spirit friends. You’ll be so glad you did! Happy Running!

Believers Have Family Everywhere

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” John 13:34 NKJV

As I ran the streets of Hinesville, Georgia Saturday morning, I began counting my many blessings. “Lord, thank You for allowing me to be here to celebrate my daughter’s birthday. Thank you for my dear husband who joyfully made the long drive from Missouri to make it happen. Thank You for the sunshine and the sound of the birds singing. Thank You mostly, though, for how you’ve changed my life Lord. You have been so good to me.” As I traveled along a little further, I had to thank Him once again for being so good to me. All the twists and turns I had taken at the prompting of the Holy Spirit led me to the Westside Baptist Church of Hinesville, and answered my prayer to find a place to worship. “Thank You Lord for leading me here,” I said out loud. “I’m excited to be worshiping with my sweet Larry and our brothers and sisters in Christ tomorrow.” 

And, you know, I had to smile as my husband and I walked in the doors of the church on Sunday. By the way our brothers and sisters greeted us and hugged us, an outsider would have assumed that we had been members of that church for years. But that’s what sets the body of Christ apart. We follow the commandment Jesus gave us to “love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” You see, God demonstrated his own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Which means that the affection we are to “demonstrate” towards fellow believers should be a love so deep and instant that it considers fellow followers as family members, rather than merely friends. This is the self-sacrificial devotion that has the power to inspire the lost to seek this otherworldly love for themselves. 

So, knowing that the love of Christ has no limits, seek to love your fellow believers in the same way my friend. And remember that, although you might not go to the same church as another believer, you are a part of the church as a whole and, therefore, part of the whole family of Christ no matter where you go. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for commanding us to love fellow believers in a way that shows the world that we are your disciples and gives them a family wherever they might travel. Help us to show the brotherly affection to one another as You have commanded us to Lord that the lost would be compelled to seek being a member of the family of Jesus Christ. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Be an Example to Follow

“At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.” Acts 7:57-58 NIV

In a story published by the Marietta Daily Journal over the weekend, it was reported that “Marist senior Tommy Latham became the latest to achieve the Holy Grail of distance running after becoming the first Georgia high school runner to break the 4-minute barrier when he ran 3 minutes, 59.79 seconds at the Marist Mile on March 28. Achieving a sub-4-minute mile has been a dream of Latham’s since he began his running career in the sixth grade, seeking to join the other 1,755 runners who have achieved the milestone since Bannister became the first to do it in 1954.” It’s no wonder it’s been a dream of Latham’s since he started running… Ever since Roger Bannister became the first runner to run a sub-4-minute mile in 1954, it has been the dream of runners around the world to accomplish that goal.

And, you know, as this story shows, it’s amazing how many people will step out to do something worthwhile when someone first paves the way—showing not only that it can be done, but that it’s an excellent pursuit. Consider the story of Stephen who was the first martyr of the Christian faith. Among the crowd witnessing Stephen’s death was a young man named Saul, later known as Paul, who would become one of the most influential apostles there ever was, writing many books of the New Testament and influencing millions of people to accept Jesus as their Savior. Yet, Saul initially approved of Stephen’s execution, giving his stamp of approval to the witnesses laying their coats at his feet. But Paul later became a faithful follower of Christ when he discovered the eternal benefits of giving his life to Jesus—thanks in part to the example of Stephen who was willing to die for his faith. Paul eventually followed Stephen’s example and became a martyr himself because of his love for the Savior, and now serves as an example to us all of what it means to fight the good fight, to finish the race, and to keep the faith. 

So, knowing that we better impact our world for the kingdom when we boldly walk out our faith, vow to live on fire for Jesus Christ each and every day my friend. Make knowing Him, serving Him, and leading the lost to Him your greatest pursuit no matter what it costs and you’ll be an example for others to follow. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the Bible that gives us the courage to be bold through the examples of the faithful believers that have gone before us and have served You with their whole hearts and reaped eternal benefits from doing so. Help us Lord to follow these examples and to be an example to those around us. Help us to live on fire for You Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

There Will Never Be a Bill

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

In a story titled “A Runner Was Hit by a Car, Then by a Surprise Ambulance Bill” published late last month, the following was reported: Jagdish Whitten was on a run in July 2023 when a car hit him as he crossed a busy San Francisco street. Whitten, then 25, described doing “a little flip” over the vehicle and landing in the street before getting himself to the curb. Concerned onlookers called an ambulance. But Whitten instead had friends pick him up and take him to a nearby hospital, the Helen Diller Medical Center, operated by the University of California-San Francisco. “I knew that ambulances were expensive, and I didn’t think I was going to die,” he said. Whitten said doctors treated him for a mild concussion, a broken toe, and bruises. As he sat in a hospital bed, attached to an IV and wearing a neck brace, Whitten said, doctors told him that because he had suffered a traumatic injury, they had to send him by ambulance to the city’s only trauma center, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital. After a short ambulance ride, Whitten said, emergency room doctors checked him out, told him he had already received appropriate treatment, and released him. Then the bill came.

And, you know, when it comes to getting a surprise bill for lifesaving services rendered, the Bible is clear that it is by grace that we have been saved, through faith—and this is not from ourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. Do you get the enormity of that? Jesus Christ died to save us from our sins and offers eternal life to all those who choose to accept Him as their Savior. This is the greatest lifesaving care a person could ever receive and yet we will never receive a surprise bill for it! Think of it as grace being the ambulance that transports believers to heaven… and yet it’s free. Does that make you smile or what?

So, if you have not made the decision to follow Jesus with your whole heart, do it today my friend. Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed and there will be no second chances once you breathe your last breath. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the death, burial, and resurrection of your Son, Jesus Christ, that paid the price for our ascension to Heaven. Help us to be so grateful for this gift of grace that we can’t help but praise You with our lips and with our lives. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

Continual Praise is a Measure of Faith

“For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you.” Psalm 71:5-6 NIV

In an article published by Runner’s World last month, the writer shared a “A strong case for continuing to run as you get older” saying “ For a variety of reasons, VO₂ max naturally decreases as you get older. Fortunately, athletes are more likely to minimize this decline through consistent and purposeful training.” Why does VO2 max matter? Of all the available health and fitness metrics, VO₂ max is one of the most important. “VO₂ max is the amount of oxygen that you can breathe in, transport to the muscle, and utilize during maximal exertion and aerobic exercise,” says Todd Buckingham, Ph.D., exercise physiologist and visiting professor at Grand Valley State University in Michigan. He explains that, besides being an indicator of overall fitness, it’s also a “gold standard” measurement of an athlete’s ability to perform well in an endurance event; essentially, the higher your VO₂ max, the greater your potential. “Once your VO₂ max gets to a certain level, other things like lactate threshold and exercise efficiency come into play. But VO₂ max is the first step in determining performance,” Buckingham says. Not surprisingly, researchers found that higher rates of cardiorespiratory fitness, as determined by VO₂ max, were associated with longer lives.

And, you know, while VO2 max is a measurement of a person’s physical potential or capacity to continually improve and perform well, constant and endless praise is a measurement of our spiritual potential. Why? Because, as you and I get older, the trials of life, the worries of each day, and the hardships of the aging process begin to stack up. And as they do, our faith can decrease. But choosing to praise God through it all shows a continued trust in the Lord to provide for our needs and to fight our battles. This is what the psalmist was alluding to when he said, “For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you.” This declaration was the psalmist’s way of saying that God had shown Himself faithful from the beginning of his life, so he would appeal to and trust in God’s continued care until the end of his life. And because of the confidence the psalmist had in the Lord, he would praise Him until the end of days. 

So, knowing that the greater your faith the greater your potential to bring Him glory, choose to trust in the Lord each and every day my friend. And choose to offer up a sacrifice of praise to the One who has promised to walk with us from the womb to the tomb and then usher us into heaven where the praise will never end. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the God who can be trusted from beginning to end. Help us to inspire the lost to seek You by the way we praise You no matter the circumstances we are faced with. Help us to fully trust You at every stage of our lives Lord that we might reach our full potential and meet the “gold standard” of spiritual fitness. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Resilience will 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 resilience. This is a subject we’ve talked about before, but one that bears repeating in light of the crazy weather we’ve been having. There have been torrential downpours, floods, cold, and high winds all across the great state of Missouri and beyond. Which is the very reason developing the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties is so crucial for every runner. Just ask those runners who ran the Bass Pro Marathon last year in the downpour! And don’t even get me started on the massive amounts of mud that we encountered at Dogwood Canyon the following week! Only those runners who were trained in resilience crossed the finish line. 

But whether you’re a long distance runner, or prefer sticking to 5k or 10k races, developing resilience will help you in more ways than one. As Dylan McGuire can attest to. You may have seen him on the Dogwood Canyon course running and/or volunteering but he learned a thing or two about bouncing back over the weekend when race day didn’t go as planned. The flooding in Memphis where his race was held caused the event to be rerouted more than once—and at one point shut down for several hours as the Wolf River floods pounded them with rain and wind and the waters continued to rise. 

His girlfriend Jill Brockman (who frequently paces the Bass Pro Half and also runs and volunteers at Dogwood Canyon) reported that Dylan and his pacer “got caught in a crazy wind and lightning storm and we had about 20 people in the pavilion waiting on him to run down the hill cheering for him and we thought he was gonna get blown off the face of the Earth.” But despite all that, Dylan kept going. 

And… he lived to give a race report that I hope inspires you to keep going no matter what your training and/or race day holds: 

I will never be a fastie and I don’t mind being a lastie! Mother Nature tried her best to keep me from the finish line! My stomach tried to keep me from the finish line! But my NASCAR level pit crew somehow kept the wheels on and oil in the engine! I will never be able to thank my crew enough. They pulled me through! I loved the miles I got to share with them.

To my Baby! I love you so very much and thank you so much for everything you did for me (he was referring to Jill of course).

Thank you to everybody back home for checking in on me. 

To the Viper RD and volunteers thank you from the bottom of my heart. No matter the weather, you put on an outstanding event! I loved it! 

The weather was everything you hoped against and then some. 

My feet are toast! I am shaken and not stirred!

This was my first 100 and I didnt know how it would make me feel. I’ve done many hard things in my life. This one here might have taken the cake as the hardest. I’m not saying it’s a one and done. I loved the feelings of embracing the suck again and pushing through it.”

#122 out!”

See the positive mindset here? Learning to keep the joy and humor in the midst of pain and setback, as this story shows, makes all the difference in making it to the finish line. As does having positive people (that’s Jill on the left) in your corner cheering you on. This is what resilience looks like! And this is why every runner needs it. 

And there you have it friends. Cultivating a mindset that chooses to press on when training or race day doesn’t go as planned is not only crucial for finishing a race but for continuing to run at every age… something the Bass Pro Fitness Series strongly encourages. So, no matter what’s in the forecast, get out there and get training friends. Determine beforehand that you will press on the despite the inevitable setbacks that are sure to come. Marathon weekend will be here before you know it and you won’t want to miss it! Happy Running!