One Step at a Time

I am not much of a runner.  Never have been, and probably never will be.  When I used to run, I was always looking forward to that “High” that people say you will get if you keep running.  I’ve never experienced that feeling and I suspect it is something that a runner made up to keep other people running.   

Even though I didn’t like running, I did learn a few things as I dabbled in this sport.  First, buy a good pair of shoes.  Your feet are worth the money and you will thank me later.  Second, join a running community.  Being with people will provide more fun and accountability.  Third, set goals and participate in sanctioned races.  The competition is good for you, and you usually get a t-shirt.  And finally, listen to music or a podcast while running.  It helps with the boredom and the pain your body goes through. 

When I was at the peak of my running (more like a small hill than a peak), I ran in the Indianapolis Half Marathon.  That’s a distance of about 13.1 miles.  The biggest attraction of the race was to get to run a lap on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.  I was so excited when I arrived at the track, but I experienced a few things that I didn’t expect.  Man, it was hot.  It was over 100 degrees on the pavement.  Then, I had not factored in how long it would take to run around a 2 ½ mile oval. 

It felt like I ran forever just to get to the first left turn, let alone finish the lap.  But while I was pounding the pavement at a mind-numbingly slow speed, God spoke to me.  He said just keep your head down and take it one step at a time.  Just be patient and faithful, one step at a time, and you will make it to the end.  And I did just that.  I finished the lap and finished the race.  It was a big achievement for me, and it was also the last half marathon I ran. 

In contemplating this story, it reminded me how life can be hard and exhausting sometimes.  Especially in times like these when there seems to be no clear end in sight for this pandemic.  So, what does a tired person do?  You keep running and take it one step at a time.  Just try to be faithful and remember there will be an end to all the suffering in the world. And as you endure and keep going, concentrate on Bible verses like:

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus,

the author and perfecter of our faith,

who for the joy set before Him

endured the cross,

scorning its shame,

and sat down at the right hand of God.

Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men,

so that you will

not grow weary and lose heart.

Hebrews 12:2-3

Maybe running isn’t so bad if I learn lessons like this….  (No, it is really pretty awful☺)

God Bless and keep walking by faith.  God loves you and He is in control.

Derek