Sunday, May 04, 2014

5K Faith When Pigs Fly


Yesterday I ran my first 5k race ever.  The decision to run in the event (affectionately known as the Flying Pig 5k for all you familiar with The Greater Cincinnati area) was made in part to support my teenage daughter's efforts in the event.   It was quite enjoyable, I might add.

While running, I was struck by a number of observations that are as applicable to our spiritual journeys as they are to the running circuit.  I have decided to post a few here.


Ancient Greek Olympic Stadium Where Foot Races Were Commonly Held  
  1. It is far easier to run the race when we have support.  Just as I encouraged my daughter, and as we were encouraged by the spectators, let's us try to encourage one another in our walks with The Lord.
  2. The better shape we are in to run the race, the better the results.  Just like a runner who uses physical training to discipline the body so it can perform at its peak, Christians need to use spiritual disciplines to train.
  3. Distance races require athletes to pace themselves in order to do well.  So to do Christians.  We must follow the pace set for us by The Lord.  If we get out in front, or fall too far back we run the risk of not finishing well.
  4. Proper hydration and nourishment is important for the runner.  This is also true for the Christian.  We must hydrate in the Living Water daily and feed upon God's Word.
  5. Finally, the race becomes easier to finish when the finish line is in sight.  "Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the Throne of God. - Hebrews 12:1-2