A good race

I began running shortly after our first son was born.  My Dad was a runner before there were Nikes, and I would like to say that I was inspired by his endeavor.  However, the motivation had much more to do with Richy Kreme do-nuts and KFC that I had wrongly assumed to be a part of pre-natal care. For well over 25 years running and races were a pleasurable regime.  The goals, the training, the cadence of your own heartbeat become familiar friends.

 This week-end marked the half-way point of this first month of treatment. When running any race, regardless of the distance, the mid-way site is always a welcome mark: you know how far you’ve come, you fathom what it takes to finish.  Although there continue to be a few surprises, the recurring side effects of the Interferon are no longer lurking as unknowns and the pattern of each day is more anticipated. ….and  half way feels like a victory.

Paul ‘s letters  contain various references to races and running.  He was perfectly accustomed to the Greek athletic games of the day and knew well what was demanded of the competitors. He mentions the racers, the prize, the goal, the training, and the rules governing the race.  From Philippians 3:12-14, in “the Message,” Paul states, “I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.”  That echoes why this half-way point feels like a victory……I see the goal, and where God is beckoning, open to the peace and growth that happens along the way…..deeply grateful for the support and encouragement that the countless prayers are providing.  Thank you for being such a vital part of the race!