Running The Race

July 11th, 2008

I am back into running - for like the 10th time in my life. Throwing kids into the picture puts a serious cramp on consistency around here. I am finally back at the “addicted and need to do it” phase. For me, it takes about 6 weeks of consistently hating every step, until you get in the groove.

The other day I ran an organized run down by the beach. A local run shop hosts it with water stops every so often. The run starts at 6am. You can run any length you choose, however, from the shop to the inlet and back is 13 miles. It was actually fun, to watch the sun come up over the water, and move along with so many different ages and abilities. All shapes and sizes were out to challenge themselves or train for the next marathon. I set my mind to pray through things as I went from water stop to water stop.

There were actually freaks elite athletes there, who were running the course 2x not just to do a marathon but to actually train for best times. I was spurred on when I began behind the 60+ year old grandma’s and grandpa’s. I thought, “if they can do this so can I”.

It got me thinking as I ran along, about discipleship to Jesus and discipleship within community. I actually thought how helpful it may be for Christians, who are physically able, to actually train for and enter a race. It doesn’t matter. Walk a 5k or something, it doesn’t have to be a marathon. But there is something about setting out on a course, and knowing that no one else can do it for you. There is also something equally as formational by seeing so many people doing it with you. You can’t be a Christian by yourself.

The idea of “running a race” is a common theme in the new testament. Paul uses it a lot in his letters. He likens the Christian life to that of running a race. I think that our culture keeps us detached from that idea. Everything is so fast, and instant. Not many people are actively training for anything, or willing to go through a little pain to finish something that may be hard.

So I am pouring over Paul’s letters again. They always have something new to say don’t they? I especially love 1 Corinthians 9. Paul doesn’t mess around about the honor and reality of his calling as well as his own personal discipleship to Jesus. Good stuff!

Peace to all those fellow runners in training today~

Entry Filed under: Life