Running lesson #4

FINDING MY DIRECTION

“May it never be that I should boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ…” [Gal. 6:14]

What a memorable run! I don’t believe I’ll ever forget my run through Washington DC. After a few days of driving, sitting, and walking I was ready for a run. And making my desire burn even hotter, hundreds of my fellow runners were enjoying the beautiful weather and matching scenery. I could no longer stand it and finally satisfied my craving by going on a 7 mile run in our nation’s capital.

I ran up the National Mall to the Capitol and over to and then down Pennsylvania Ave. After winding around through various streets it was back to the Mall, past the Washington Monument, beside the reflecting pool, and up the steps up the Lincoln Memorial (I felt like Rocky!). From there I ran over the Potomac to Arlington and then back across the bridge and eventually ended up where I began.

What a run! There was so much history and significance. There were monuments honoring Washington and Lincoln whose decisions were so meaningful to our country. I was vividly reminded of the sacrifices of so many as I ran past the monument walls. Then there was the beauty of this spring day. The cherry blossoms in the Tidal Basin were in full bloom and their brilliant shades of pink were reflected off the Potomac as I made my way back across.

There was only one difficulty: I often didn’t know where I was! Between being caught up in the run with its accompanying thoughts and being in an unfamiliar place, periodically I had no clue where I was or even which direction I was headed. But it wasn’t a problem because there is always the Washington monument! No matter where I was, I could look for the 555’ obelisk and get my bearing. As long as I could see the monument I would never be lost.

The figurative cross of Jesus has the same ability to keep us centered as well. As I see Him there and consider all that goes with it, I cannot get lost if I keep my eyes on the cross.

When we are tempted to promote self, the cross calls us to promote Him – Gal. 6:14

When we are tempted to divide and splinter, the cross calls us to unite – John 17

When we are tempted to call our own shots, the cross calls us to deny self – Mt. 16:24

When we are tempted to teach our will, the cross calls us to be true to His will – 1 Cor. 1:17, 18

It’s so comforting to always be able to find your center! As we run through life, let’s always remember to look to the cross for the direction that we need. As long as you keep the cross in sight, you can’t get lost!

Gotta run!