race day

And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

i've never been a good runner. i've tried, i've taken classes, run races and yes, even taught a running class. but my body isn't wired for that, it takes serious effort to get me to lace up my shoes and hit the pavement.

i see faith a bit like running, it takes huge effort, and sometimes you are going to want to quit. it takes discipline to force body and mind to keep putting one foot in front of another, to keep focusing on what is good and right and pure. sometimes all i want to do is stop and sit on a bench - but that doesn't assist in reaching my goals. i like this verse because god is saying, hey, faith isn't easy, it's a marathon, but don't get distracted and forget the finish line.

as much as i struggle at running, there is always that moment when your legs kick in and your body feels like a well oiled machine. if every time i went for a run this happened immediately, i would run everyday. but the truth of the matter is that it takes time for that to happen. the body needs to be trained and warmed up for that wonderful sensation of effortlessness. faith is the same. training our minds and hearts to focus on the lord isn't our (my) default mode. it takes training and practice. but once we hit our stride, it is so worth it.

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