Monday, March 23, 2009

Irish Jig Results


I did it! I ran my first 5k last Saturday - after working 3rd shift at the Sleep Clinic, even. Although my time was not too impressive (30:11) it was fun and I think I'll do it again. I ran with 3 other sleep techs and while we were at work the night before we made t-shirts (plain white t with green bubble paint) with our names and the slogan on the back 'Work all night, run all day: Sleep Tech Run Club '09." We're in talks to do the Riverbank Run on May 9. I think I may want to aim for the 10K but we'll see! I'll post pics later.

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Mountains

I've been training for a 5k this coming Saturday, 'The Irish Jig.' I've been pushing myself harder, higher, faster, further. 3 mile runs have become a thing of the past as I've decided I can run 5 miles - every time. Well, now I'm loving 6 mile runs -- this is crazy for me at age 33 and 3 kiddos. Especially in light of the fact that I was never a runner before (I liked short sprints!) You might say that I'm addicted. I love the feeling of accomplishment afterward, the endorphin rush and no, I don't mind all the sweat.

I recall lots of sermons based on Matthew 17:20 and 21:21 talking about having faith to face and yes, even move your mountains. Just have faith, even faith as small as a mustard seed and you can move that mountain out of your way. Have you heard one of these sermons?

I've been adding in moderate inclines (think small or medium hills) and some speed work into my daily runs and it has got me thinking about hills, valleys and mountains that we face in our lives. Consider this: is it possible or likely that our Creator might want us to actually climb some of these hills or gulp, mountains? I think so.

As I've added speed, inclines and distance into my runs I've noticed lots of physical, emotional and spiritual changes in myself. Running hard, fast and long makes me stronger in all three areas. Physically I am seeing my body and muscles change over time, my lung capacity increase, my weight decrease. Emotionally I am more strong, confident and capable. Spiritually I know truly "I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

So often when facing one of life's hurdles i.e. difficult parts of relationships, finances, parenting, etc. I just want to see that problem disappear miraculously. But as I recall each hardship or difficulty from the past, I also recall lessons I've learned, insights God has given, changed behaviors/attitudes (yes, I'll own up to the desperate need for that:) Each 'mountain' has had immeasurable value in the process and at the end.

Life is tough sometimes. But even when it is tough, or we encounter tough things, we can always be assured that ". . . in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 and that God says in Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you . . . plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

There's a little cupful of sunshine I'll drink this afternoon :)