Telling Others About the Things We Love

Telling Others About the Things We Love

                Runners are a proud bunch. To be sure, we are in the vast minority, and we know that we are, but that in no way makes us shy about our sport. In fact, we often talk about running (even to our non-running friends), wear race shirts that easily identify us as runners, and even put stickers on our vehicles (like the one below).  We’ve also been known to be so enthusiastic about our sport that we are ready to answer questions others may have and eager to recruit others to running.

We aren’t shy about it because we enjoy the benefits, because we know that others would benefit from it too, and because, well, we just like it!  Maybe you’re not a runner, but chances are there’s some activity, person, or relationship that you are proud of and often talk about. Golfers, hunters, shoppers, crocheters (is that a word?!), grandparents, dog lovers, horse enthusiasts, bridge players, and word puzzle lovers alike have been known to be very open about their passion.

Now, here’s the point: how quick are we to talk to others about our faith? How enthusiastic are we about our relationship with God? Are we so “proud” to be a part of God’s family that we naturally talk about it? There are a couple of things to consider here.

First, it’s completely natural to talk about things or people we like and to share good news with those we know. If a man makes a hole-in-one, everyone in the same zip code will know about it! If a lady finds a 90% off sale, she will call all her friends (after she has bought all she wants, of course!). With every birth, phone calls are made and pictures are posted; parents fawn and grandparents gloat. It’s just natural.

Second, God wants us to tell others the good news we already know. In multiple passages, (Matthew 28:18,19; Mark 16:15,16; and many others ) He either overtly tells us to tell others, or shows us examples of those who shared the good news. This is His priority (Luke 19:10) and therefore should be our priority!

So, who will you tell about the One you love?

Gotta run!

Keith

                

Finding Your Way Back

Finding Your Way Back

"...Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecc. 12:13)

On a recent trip to Johannesburg, I went out for a 12 mile run, leaving from the home of the friends I was staying with. I wasn’t familiar with the area, but I also wasn’t going to run in circles for 12 miles, so off I went. What I did know was that Pretoria Road was my landmark and would lead me home. After a few miles I turned to the right and began to explore new territories. I enjoyed seeing beautifully manicured lawns, the scents of blooming flowers, and generally just soaking in the beautiful day. At times I was lost in the music of my trusty running companion and at other times I was simply lost in thought.

After several miles I decided that I should begin heading back toward Pretoria Road and so I began to go in what I believed to be that direction. The only problem was I kept running, but without finding my landmark. I am normally good with a sense of direction so I reasoned that if I kept going I would eventually find my way. (I definitely didn’t want to stop and ask for directions because, after all, I am a man!) So I kept going.

After running for several more minutes I began to lose confidence that I would find my way back without some help, so I swallowed my pride, and asked directions of a young man who was tending a yard. I took off in the direction he told me, only to need to ask another person a while later. After following his directions I asked a third person and, with his help, I finally made back to Pretoria Road. Each of the 3 men helped me get back, but I was much more lost than I had realized.

The same thing happens sometimes in life too. We’re “running” along doing our own thing, completely lost in the matters of life, when suddenly we realize that we don’t know where we are going or maybe even why we’re “running” in the first place. King Solomon spent a lot of his “run” lost. He finally found his way and concluded, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecc. 12:13) When we lose our way, that’s the landmark that will take us home.

I didn’t mean to be lost and it happened so gradually that I cannot even tell you when it happened, but I was lost nevertheless. It was so comforting to finally make it back to the safety of home and to have a glass (or six!) of refreshing ice water. It is also comforting and refreshing to find your way in life. If you’ve lost your way, don’t be afraid to ask for help – it’s worth it to be able to find your way back! Think about it.

Gotta run!

Keith

Don't Stop!

DON’T STOP!

“Don’t grow weary in well doing, for we will reap if we do not faint.” (Gal. 6:9)

As a distance runner, I have often been asked by non-runners how I can possibly run for such long distances. I cannot count the number of times someone has asked how I could possibly run 26 miles. I understand because I used to wonder the same. I have a friend who was in the habit of running 10 miles every Sunday morning before church, and I was in disbelief that anyone could run that far and live to tell about it!

So, after I tell them it is actually 26.2, I simply say, “Just don’t stop!” I know it sounds too simplistic, but it really is the key. You just have to find the strength to keep putting one foot in front of the other. You definitely do get tired, but if you can just keep going, you’ll never stop! The mind will try to convince you that you cannot go on and that you must stop, but if you can ignore that voice long enough, you’ll soon finish. And if you do stop, you’re not sure if you’re going to get started again. Perhaps you have seen runners jogging in place at a red light. They aren’t exercising; they’re just afraid to stop!

The same principle is true of so many other areas of life. If you’re doing the right thing, don’t stop! But, just like on a long run, the temptation to stop can often be so strong. This is precisely why Paul wrote, “Don’t grow weary in well doing, for we will reap if we do not faint.” (Gal. 6:9) If is possible to get tired, even when, and maybe especially when, we are doing the right thing. But don’t stop!

Maybe you’re tired of doing the right thing…but don’t stop!

Maybe you’re tired in your marriage…but don’t stop!

Maybe you’re tired of being nice… but don’t stop!

Maybe you’re tired of being tired…but don’t stop!

We do get tired, but when we do, just determine to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Remember, if you don’t stop, you’ll finish!

Gotta run!

The Importance of Self-Talk

Self-Talk Makes All the Difference!

In a graduate course, I was assigned the reading of a book entitled, “What to Say When You Talk to Yourself” by Shad Helmstetter. I will admit that when I first read the title my thoughts were something like, “oh great, gotta read some psycho-babble!”, but I was wrong! The thesis of the book is that we are so greatly affected by what we tell ourselves, that we actually become exactly what we think. And since we ultimately become what we think, we need to closely watch our thoughts and ensure that they are what they should be.

In my running I have discovered this truth over and over again. I recall once, while training for a half marathon, that there were only two days in the entire training program when I thought, “I can’t do this today” and those were the only two days that I didn’t finish the run. On the other hand, there have been many times that I willed my way through difficult stretches by reassuring myself that I could do it and, without exception, I succeeded. Many of you have experienced the same.

We should not be surprised though, as this is a biblical principle from long ago. Solomon wrote, “For as a man thinks in his heart, so he is…” (Prov. 23:7). We eventually become what we think. This powerful principle cuts both ways and we need to be on the right side of it, thinking what is right and best to fully reach our potential.

Many people - runners, Christians, and others - short-circuit themselves with false and negative self-talk. They convince themselves of falsehoods that in turn become self-fulfilling prophecies. Yes, there are many challenges, but the strength for the journey is available. Paul declared that he could do all things, not on his own, but because God strengthened him to do so. (Phil. 4:13).

Regardless of your goals, remember to think the best things and the right things, so you can fully reach your potential!

Gotta run!

YOU NEED FUEL!

YOU NEED FUEL

Every runner knows that without the right kind and amount of fuel, you won’t run very far. Fuel is so important to running that untold numbers of studies have been conducted to determine the way the body responds to various foods, and to determine how much is needed. The findings of the studies: you have to have fuel!

More specifically, your running body needs fuel on a periodic basis. To get ready for a race, runners will “carb up”, not just the night before, but all week leading up to the race. The strategy is to stockpile energy for the race so that they don’t grow weak.

But you can never stockpile enough fuel to last the entirety to the race; you need it periodically. Those of us who run long distances actually put food in our pockets for the journey, knowing we will have to have the calories along the way. And when a runner hits the dreaded “wall”, it is because his body has run out of energy to metabolize.

Every runner knows that they need fuel!

The spiritual parallel is obvious: we need spiritual food for the journey! The good news is that, as our Creator, God is aware of this need and has completely provided everything. Among the “foods” that energize us for the journey are bible study, prayer, and fellowship with other Christians. These supplements keep us strong in Christ and, in turn, a strength for others (Heb. 10:23-25).

Too often when one hits the spiritual “wall”, it is a direct result of neglecting the fuel that they need. Too many times we’ve seen Christians neglect assembling with the church or stop reading their bible or stop praying (or perhaps neglect all of these) and as a result, they grow weak. And like the runner that doesn't eat, this condition is completely preventable!

So take advantage of the spiritual food that is yours to enjoy! Read, pray, worship and grow stronger, because every Christian knows that they need fuel!

Think about it.

Gotta run!

Keith

It's Better to Run With the Group

It Is Better to Run With a Group!

Neither schedules, nor running paces have often allowed for me to run with a partner, but when I have, the miles have flown by! Not only does the time go faster, I go faster. I remember very well the early morning runs on the dirt roads in and around Kisongo, Tanzania with my buddy Mike Reese. I almost always ran at a faster pace with him than when on my own. Neal Pollard and Bob Turner have had the same effect on me in the oxygen-deprived altitude of Denver.

The same dynamic happens on race day. There are so many like-minded people that the air is filled with excitement. You can feel it! The enthusiasm is so contagious that most runners actually have to make a conscious decision to not go out too fast when the gun sounds. Every runner loves race day!

Regardless the interest, there is always something special about sharing an activity with others who love it as much as you!

And this is why it is so important for Christians to “run with the group” as often as possible! Whether it is the regular assembly times or other specially scheduled events, we need to be with each other! It is there that we both receive and give encouragement (Heb. 10:24, 25). These are the times when we share our common interests and ambitions and enjoy the enthusiasm of our commonality.

On the other hand, when we choose to not come together, we are distancing ourselves from God and His people, which will ultimately lead to a cooling of our enthusiasm. This is precisely why God said to not do it. Anyone who stays away will eventually go away.

So let’s not miss out on any opportunity to run with the group!

Stand Up Straight!
“Examine yourselves…” [2 Cor. 13:5]

It’s likely that we have all seen basketball players taking advantage of a break in the action to bend over and hold their shorts while someone else is shooting free throws. Perhaps we have even done the same thing. That’s because the natural tendency is to lean over when you’re tired.

The same is true in running. As we tire, we gradually begin to bend at the waist and the move is so subtle that we seldom realize it. The problem is that that is the worst thing to do! When you bend at the waist it constricts your diaphragm and limits your breathing, making it more difficult to get the air that you need. It feels like the natural thing to do, but it is actually the worst thing to do!

I’ve noticed a similar reaction in our spiritual lives. When we begin to tire we often lean in a way that actually hurts us. Maybe we’re tired from the stress of a particular issue or some hidden burden that no one knows about or just the cares of everyday living. It is at that point that many make the unconscious choice to lean by forsaking the church assemblies, by not being with other Christians, by not reading and praying and by not taking advantage of the strength around them. It feels like the natural thing to do, but it is actually the worst thing to do!

It is in those moments we need to check our posture. While running, I look for any reflective surface (windows, mirrors, etc.) to see if I need to straighten up, literally! Spiritually, God’s word provides the mirror (James 1:23, 24) and we are to examine ourselves (2 Cor. 13:5) and make positive changes in our life.

Have you been leaning lately? Look in the mirror to see if you need to straighten up.

Gotta run!

HELPING EACH OTHER RUN BETTER
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. [Pro 27:17]

My favorite running route is a trail I have named “Serenity and Sweat”. A 5 mile trail through the wooded hills, it is serene. The beauty of the trail follows the seasons so its appearance is ever changing and you’re more likely to see wildlife than people. And the sweat flows freely because it is a most challenging run composed of 5 miles of hills and constant elevation change.

Near the end of the run there is one last hill that both defies and discourages me. After having already run 4 miles of hills I often convince myself that is it understandable to just walk it. But not on a recent run. The difference was that Kyle (our oldest son) was running the trail with me. Kyle didn’t know that I sometimes walk that last hill (he has run the trail with me only once) so he kept running. So I kept running because he was and because I didn’t want to look like the Dad who couldn’t keep up! We both made it to the top still alive and finished out our run.

On the way home he said, “When we got to that last hill I didn’t think I could make it. I wanted to walk but since you weren’t I just kept running.” A wry grin crossed my face while I said, “Let me let you in on a little secret…” Later I told him, “If we play this right, we can make each other better runners!”

And that’s the way it works, doesn’t it? Exemplary companionship is a win-win situation. It is a never-ending circle with benefits both. Solomon said it this way, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. [Pro 27:17]. It is true in running (if you want to run faster, run with someone faster!) and it is true in even more important aspects of our life.

Remember this principle whether you’re choosing friends or running partners and you’ll be sharpened as you sharpen. Think about it.

Gotta run!

Enjoy the Journey!

Enjoy the Journey

I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ [Phil. 3:8]

To train for a big race you have to be willing to invest many hours and be ready to put in many miles. One shoe company ad says, “Because we know that 26.2 is the easy part!” That’s so true! To prepare for a marathon you spend 12-16 weeks running between 300-500 miles. That is more than 10 times the distance of the actual race. And inevitably there comes a point when you begin wondering if it’s worth it and then the little voices begin telling you to quit.

Every runner knows that race day makes it all worthwhile, but what do you do when race day is just too far away to provide any real motivation?

That’s when I decide to enjoy the journey! That’s when I choose to focus on the beauty of the scenery or on the fun of being outside and moving or simply on the joy of discipline. These are the fringe benefits that add another layer of payment to all the training. If I don’t enjoy the journey I’m sure to quit!

The same principle applies in Christianity. Sometimes in the course of running the Christian race we begin to wonder if it’s really worth it. It seems like we’re making big sacrifices to be in the race while others are just lying on the couch and we wonder if we should join them. The temptation to quit is great!

Every Christian knows that Heaven makes it all worthwhile, but what do you do when it just seems too far away to motivate?

That’s when you remember that there is SO much more to Christianity than looking forward to Heaven! That’s when you decide to focus on the fellowship and support of brethren, the joy of Christian living, the hope you have for both the present and future, and the many other fringe benefits of living for God. Paul said that he was willing to lose everything now to be with God later and even if that happened it would be worth it all! (Phil. 3:8) If we don’t enjoy the journey we’re sure to quit!

Stay in the race! Enjoy the journey! It’s worth it…now and later!

Gotta run!

UPHILL AND INTO THE WIND!

UPHILL AND INTO THE WIND!

“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,” [2 Cor. 4:17]

If you’re like me, you don’t have the flattest terrain on which to run. If you do run on level ground I can assure you there are many of us who are at least a little envious. Without hills the running is so much easier; so much more predictable. And while there is a downhill for every uphill, it has been proven scientifically and experientially that the down-side of the hill never gives back all that the up-side took.

The same can be said of the wind. The difference the wind makes when it is blowing into you is nothing less than amazing…and disheartening! It slows you. It strains you. It actually discourages you. And so often it seems that the wind is in my face the entire run regardless of the direction I am running. It is so much easier to have it at your back. And when the two are combined, running uphill and into the wind, the run can be very tough.

But here’s the part of the story that’s so easy to miss in all the huffing, puffing, and sweating: running uphill makes you a better runner and better prepares you for the next hill! There will be hills on the course. At the 7th mile of my first half-marathon there was a 1¼ mile stretch that was a 7% grade uphill. While competitors were dropping like flies I never missed a step. The reason was simple: I was accustomed to running hills!

It would be nice if life was always downhill and with the wind at our back, but we know that simply isn’t possible. There will be hills and strong headwinds and, at times, it will seem that the universe is conspiring to combine the two simply for the purpose of making our run tough. But it is during those times that we are actually being made stronger.

Occasionally we have to deal with setbacks and disappointments in the course of life. Health issues, family troubles, job concerns, and the like are the uphills of life and none of us wish for them, but God tells us that they are actually making us stronger (2 Cor. 4:17). He also says that they are temporary (2 Cor. 4:18) and that we can look forward to one day coasting on the downhill. So remember, when the going is tough just keep running, taking comfort in the fact that you’re becoming stronger and that the tough times won’t last!

Gotta run!

How Do You Eat an Elephant?

HOW DO YOU EAT AN ELEPHANT?
“I press on toward the goal…” [Phi. 3:14]

As the old saying goes, one bite at a time! Our goals must be big; they must be ambitious because no other kind motivates. So make goals big…but not so big that achieving them seems impossible. So how can we have large goals without becoming discouraged? The key: divide the journey to your goal into achievable steps. Eat the elephant one bite at a time.

While running the 2008 Akron (OH) Marathon I learned the need to divide big goals into small bites. I distinctly remember thinking to myself, after completing mile 5, “OK, 5 down, only 21 to go…21! I’m already tired and sweating profusely and I still have 21 miles to go?!” Bad self-psychology! Later in the race my mind said to myself, “Great job, 16 down and only 10.2 to go.” To which myself replied, “What!? Are you crazy? Who in their right mind runs 10 miles after 16?!”

I’ve learned my lesson, so in my next marathon (2009 Kentucky Derby) I will be running only 4, 6 mile laps followed by 2.2 mile. That’s all. Doesn’t my mind know better, you ask. Well, it does and it doesn’t. The key is to break the goal down into manageable steps and then take them one at a time. "It is amazing how much you can progress week after week, month after month, year after year if you allow for gradual training increases." [Bob Glover, The Runners Handbook]

The same holds true in the “races” of life. We have those moral issues, bad habits, and destructive vices that we’d like to eliminate, but the job just seems too big. And there are those virtues that we’d like to see in our life but it just seems impossible. Looking at the entire “elephant” it is; but break it down into bites and you can do it!

I once counseled someone struggling with addiction with this advice, “You don’t have to stay clean the rest of your life, just today!” It is precisely that mindset that will help us achieve any goal. You don’t have to control that emotion, destroy that vice, or eliminate that problem for the rest of your life, just for today. You cannot adopt much-needed virtues for the remainder of your years, but you can add them today!

Break that elephant down and keep chewing!

Gotta run!

Running Lesson #11

Permanent vs. Temporary

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call…” [Phi. 3:14]

It’s that time of year again when you find out how badly you want to run. Chilly temps, wind-chill factors, and icy spots all remind you ever so rudely that it is winter and you are outside! While being outside beats the treadmill any day no matter the weather, it does have a way of making you sort out your priorities. There’s an adage that says, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only weak people.” I don’t know if that is true but I do know that conditions will force you to decide how permanent your goals are.

I run when it’s time to run and not when all the conditions are just right; the only exception being dangerously hot weather. (My entire plan will be put to the test while I’m in Montreal the last week of January!:-)) After many hours of running in less than ideal conditions, I have concluded this: the nature of my action is determined by the nature of my goal. If my goals are permanent then my actions are too; if my goals are fleeting my actions will be as well.

For example, if I am suddenly inspired one beautiful spring day to get out and enjoy the beauty of our Creator, as many are, I will do so. And while that is a worthwhile goal, it won’t get me out the door on a nasty January morning when His handiwork isn’t as obvious. My goal was temporary (perfect days don’t last) and so was my action.

On the other hand, if my goal is a spring marathon I will head out the door regardless the current weather because my objective is still ahead of me. I have short term goals (races) and a singular long term goal guiding what I do (good health). Because my goals are not affected by weather, neither are my actions. The conditions are temporary but my goals are not.

Now, let’s make this practical for the Christian race. If we forget our permanent goal, we’re going to make some bad choices that are based on temporary circumstances. Pleasure, popularity, and possessions do not last, yet how many times do we short circuit our long term goal by placing priority on these very temporary actions? With temporary goals, temporary actions work; but if our goal is enduring we’ll have to think long term. Why did Paul “press on”? Because of his goal to have “the prize”. We too will win the race if we do the same. Think about it and press on!

Gotta run!

Running lesson #10

DROP THE PRETENSE!
“…encourage the fainthearted, support the weak....” 1 Thess. 5:14

One of the things I like most about the race crowd is there is no pretense. Oh sure, there’s the occasional “strutter” who is better in his mind than he is on the road, but basically everyone owns up to who he is. At the water station folks do not act like they aren’t thirsty and no one is too cool to appreciate the cheering of the spectators. It is all very real. After all, if anyone understands it is your fellow runner.

And races are not always pretty. The gals don’t wear makeup and the guys don’t wear cologne (please don’t!) – this is a race after all! Sweating bodies, running noses, and various aromas reflect that the race, while often enjoyable, is sometimes a difficult proposition. Everyone struggles so no one acts as if they do not.

Life can be a struggle too, only we try to fake it in life. We put on a face like nothing is wrong and that we have it all together even when we know that we do not. Or, we need assistance and encouragement but we’re too proud to let on, so we just limp along in pain. We all struggle at times and we all crave encouragement, so why do we act like we do not, especially in the church?

Marshall Hayden wrote an article a few years ago entitled, "Would Every Non-Hurter Please Stand Up?" He pointed out that people come to church wearing their best clothes & their best smiles. Everybody looks happy, so we assume everything is okay. But he suggests that we need to look beyond the facade & realize that the pews are full of hurting people.

He wrote, "Over here is a family with an income of $550 a week and an outgo of $1,000. Over there is a family with two children who, according to their dad, are "failures." "You’re stupid. You never do anything right," he is constantly telling them. The lady over there just found a tumor that tested positive. The Smith’s little girl has a hole in her heart.

"Sam & Louise just had a nasty fight. Each is thinking of divorce. Last Monday Jim learned that he was being laid off. Sarah has tried her best to cover the bruises her drunken husband inflicted when he came home Friday night. That teen over there feels like he is on the rack, pulled in both directions. Parents & church pull one way, peers & glands pull the other.

"Then there are those of us with lesser hurts, but they don’t seem so small to us: an unresponsive spouse, a boring job, a poor grade, a friend or parent who is unresponsive ...on & on the stories go. The lonely, the dying, the discouraged, the exhausted, they’re all here."

Just like a long race, life can be tiring and messy. Without becoming chronic complainers we need to be more open with each other. Hayden suggests we should “look beyond the facade” and we should, but how much better would it be if there were no facades in the first place. If you’re running weak get strength. If you have a sin problem get help. If you are discouraged seek encouragement. We’re all in this race together so let’s drop the pretense because if anyone understands, it’s your fellow runner!

Gotta run!

Running Lesson #9

DON’T QUIT TOO SOON!
“…let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…” [Heb. 12:1]

Tomorrow (9/26/08) I head up I-77 through the beautiful Ohio farm land to run in the annual Akron Marathon on Saturday. This is not a last minute decision – anything but! I have been training for months and the event has been on my calendar even longer. There is no way I’m going to back out now.

> I have too much invested! There are many hours on my stopwatch and many miles (about 400) on my shoes. I will not throw that away!
> I am looking forward to the company! I love race day and the race crowd because we have so much in common. I’m looking forward to meeting new people and hearing new stories.
> I want to cross the finish line! I have often envisioned what it is going to be like to cross the finish line, especially during difficult runs. There were times that thought alone kept me going. Now I’ll finally get my chance to experience it.

As you would imagine, I’m not going to quit now! If I was ever going to give up on this goal it would have been months ago. In fact, I have discovered that people are more likely to quit early than late. I wouldn’t have thought it before, but early on I discovered that the urge to stop was greater after just a mile than it was after 5 miles. But after a little while you catch your stride and get in the groove and you want to finish well.

I have observed the same thing in new Christians. The same reasons I won’t give up on the race now are the same reasons long-time Christians rarely quit at the end. But new Christians are often different. They start out good: energized and running well. It’s great to be a Christian! But after a while the new wears off or they run into some obstacle and they want to stop. What they don’t know is that if they just keep running they’ll catch their stride and then they won’t want to quit.

The lesson, especially for new Christians, is simple: just keep running. You’ll be glad you did! (Rev. 2:10)

Gotta run!

Running Lesson #8

I’m Willing to Look Like a Fool to a Achieve My Goal!

“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness…”
Matt. 5:10

I previously did not know that about myself but it’s true. Please understand: I don’t want to look like an idiot any more than anyone else does, but it seems that when I’ve set my heart on achieving a particular goal, any desire to preserve dignity is overcome by the determination to reach the objective. Boy have gotten some looks and heard some comments!

One afternoon, shortly after beginning a run through town, it started to rain. Within seconds it was an absolute downpour. Well, I couldn’t get any wetter so I just kept running. That day I ran 6 miles in a monsoon so strong that it affected my visibility more than anything else. It just so happened that our secretary drove by at some point and later admitted that she thought, “What idiot would be out here running in this!” before realizing who it was. (Then she was sure it was an idiot!)

I have run in other less-than-ideal conditions where the looks on the faces of passing motorists have told the entire story. When people see you running in extreme cold or blowing snow or high heat they just don’t get it. While running in rural Tanzania (where there is apparently no social stigma against staring) the locals staring at me seem to be thinking, “who is this white man and what is he running from!” But the looks didn’t matter but I had to keep my training on target to reaching my goal.

And it happened again this week. It wasn’t raining when I started the run, but before it was over it was hard to tell which was worse: the wind or the rain. Then to my surprise, a thoughtful young woman turned around, pulled up beside me, and said, “Is there somewhere I can take you?” I said, “No thank you, I’m just running.” She said, “Are you sure?” You’ve seen the look: a crinkled nose and eyes that say “you gotta be kidding!” I reassured her, thanked her for her consideration, and took off again.

The lesson is this: when your goal is consuming you don’t care what others think! Sometimes we make the wrong choices in life because we’re afraid of what others may think. The teenager participates in an ungodly activity because she doesn’t want anyone to laugh at her for saying “no”. The businessman undertakes questionable practices to fit in with the crowd. We do something we should not or do not do something that we should do because we are overly concerned with the opinion of others.

The reality is that if we are not of this world we will never really be fully accepted by the world. The prophets, apostles, and Jesus were so despised by the world that they were persecuted. Their response? They kept doing right because they had a goal that was out of this world! Wanting to fit in and be accepted is a universal desire, but if it is causing us to make wrong decisions then we need to reassess our goals in life and eternity. When Heaven is our goal what others think doesn’t matter so much!

Gotta run!

Running Lesson #7

MY NEW RUNNING PARTNER

“A friend loves at all times…” Prov. 17:17

Having now logged 3 runs with my new running partner it is officially confirmed: I really like him! I don’t want to knock my old running partner, but he had become frustrating and disappointing. On cold mornings he would quit long before I did (wimp!), on long runs it wasn’t uncommon for him to stop before we were finished, and he had become increasingly stubborn. And no, I’m not worried that he’ll read this and be offended.

You see, my old running partner (and my new one) is an MP3 player. Busy, conflicting schedules and differing paces make running with a friend an unusual treat, so it’s usually just me, my music, and my thoughts. It’s not a bad second option, in fact I like the solitude and I like the music. But the frustration with my formerly-trusty running partner has reminded me of the qualities of true friendship.

A good friend is dependable! Not knowing if my old running partner was going to “show up” or if it would finish, left me with unfriendly feelings. Those really cold mornings, when I needed it the most, were when it most often left on my own. But a good friend is always there for you.

A good friend is trustworthy! The old player would often show “full battery” at the beginning of the run and it really was but other times it would be dead within 30 minutes. No matter what he said I could never believe him! It’s the same with a friend – if you’re not sure you can trust them then there’s nothing there and no reason to continue the charade. It’s no wonder honesty is the foundation of any relationship.

A good friend is available! One particularly cold February morning I thought, “I’m really glad I have the music today – I really need it” and within three minutes the old partner decided it was too cold for him! What good is a player that doesn’t play and what’s the point of having a friend who isn’t there for you? Prov. 18:24

A good friend encourages you! Studies have proven the motivational benefits of music during exercise. But I don’t need a study to prove it – I experience it several times a week! And that’s what a good friend does. He motivates me when I need motivation. And he doesn’t just blow smoke, because sometimes I need to hear what I don’t want to hear.

Yes, I definitely like my new running partner. So far he is dependable, trustworthy, available, and is a constant encourager. Sounds like the kind of friend I want. Sounds like the kind of friend I want to be.

Gotta run!

Running Lesson #6

A PLEASANT AROMA

“…a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” - Phil. 4:18

Having a very good sense of smell is not all it’s cracked up to be! Oh, it has its pros but it very definitely comes with a set of cons as well. For whatever reason, my olfactory system is highly charged and incredibly sensitive. I can smell the dead opossum on the side of the road when he’s still alive! It is nice when there is fresh-baked bread in the air or a nice scent in the room, but it can be downright tough at other times.

So you can imagine how I felt on a recent run when I got a snout-full of the scent of moth balls! Here I am, running down the road, inhaling deeply when it hits me like a ton of bricks. I don’t know how you feel about moth balls, but personally I will fold, wrap, and hand deliver my entire wardrobe to the moths before I ever try to repel them with the hideous and insidious smell of those marble-sized menaces. That’s how I feel about the smell of moth balls.

So you can image how I felt when just a few houses down, as I was trying to snort out the previous odor (literally), I got a whiff of someone grilling meat over charcoal! Oh have mercy did it smell good and was it ever a nice surprise! It was all I could do to not drop in and see what was on the menu. I suddenly went from running faster to get away from the stench to slowing down to enjoy the pleasant aroma. What a nice change.

The entire episode reminds me that we all have an “aroma”. As we go through our day and interact with others, they are getting a “whiff” of who we are. Sometimes the experience is pleasant and they like to linger, but other times the odor repels them. You know what I mean because you experience the aroma of other people every day. Some are good and some are bad – but everyone has an “aroma”.

Attitude, disposition, words, actions, body language, and facial expressions are all a part of our aroma. I can’t change all the bad smells out there but I can make sure that I don’t add to them. I’m thankful to the moth ball house for reminding to not “stink” and to the grilling people for reminding me that a pleasant aroma is a welcome delight for someone! What do others think about your “aroma”? Think about it.

Gotta run!

Running lesson #5

STICK TO THE PLAN AND ENJOY THE RESULTS

“I buffet my body and make it my slave…” 1 Cor. 9:27

A recent loss of 10 pounds has revealed veins, abs, and an overall muscle definition that I have never before seen, at least not in my mirror. Before you think this is an exercise in narcissism let me assure you it isn’t. While it is nice to be in the best shape of your life at a time when many of your contemporaries haven’t seen their feet since the first Bush was President; the reality is that when your age begins with a 4 (or more) all signs of progress are more about vitality than vanity.

The improvements were both unintentional and intentional. They were both unexpected and planned. Huh? What I mean is that, while I did not set out to lose weight, I did intentionally set and follow the plan that brought it about. I decided on a fairly rigorous fitness plan that includes lifting weights 3 days per week and running another 3-4 days per week. After sticking to this plan for several months I noticed something happening around my waist. And now if I don’t cinch up my belt to the last hole I may be embarrassed!

The nicest part is that these are just the fringe benefits. The best part is happening on the inside. My endurance is up and my blood pressure is down. My energy has been raised while my pulse has been lowered. The lean muscle mass is up and the body fat percentage is down. All these are signs of good health – the ultimate physical goal. Set a goal, stick to the plan, and enjoy the results.

The same has obvious, and more important, spiritual application. What is our ultimate spiritual goal? Do we have a plan to help attain that goal? Are we willing to stick to it even when it would be easier to quit? Are we giving something to the accomplishment of that goal every day? If we can answer these questions in the right way, then we will also experience the fringe benefits too.

Remember that the best things are happening on the inside. Benefits such as more peace and contentment. A better outlook on life. A heavenly perspective that allows us to see beyond the temporary. The joy of forgiveness – both received and extended. The blessings of living a selfless life. The list goes on and on and I encourage you to make your own list.

The principle is simple Set a goal, stick to the plan, and enjoy the results.
You can do it!

Gotta run!

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!

Running Lesson #3

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SAY!

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt” – Col. 4:6

And where you say it and to whom you say it and how you say it. Those are all things that we know but sometimes have to be reminded…the hard way! Not too long ago I was running in one of my favorite places. It’s a place that I like to run because it’s pretty, occasionally there are a few nice old people out walking (from the assisted living home where my ole buddy Mary lives), and, most of all, because it’s flat. As a result the “runners high” usually hits me somewhere on that stretch.

If you’ve read this blog before, you know what that means – I begin to sing along with my MP3 player. Out loud. And, if you know me, I’ve never been confused with Pavorotti, Placido, or even Bob Dylan for that matter. But that’s OK because there hardly ever anyone around and the residents don’t hear so well, so I usually let it rip! But this day was different.

As I was running on this beautiful, not-a-cloud-in-the-sky day and enjoying just being out, I began to sing along. I knew that I was getting closer to the home but what I didn’t know was that there was a woman, who appeared to be in her forties walking in the parking lot. But the peripheral vision in my right eye caught the movement of her head violently jerking around as I belted out, “She’s a lady!” I immediately knew what she must be thinking so, being the quick-thinker that I am, I just kept on singing the “Whoa, whoa, whoa” along with Tom Jones so that she would know that I was singing and not making cat call on the run. How embarrassing!

You would think that I would have learned from that, but you’d be wrong. Just yesterday, while in the middle of a 13 miler, I was caught up in a song and you know where I was when it happened. This time I did scan the parking lot and with no one in sight, I cut loose on the chorus of a great song: “That woman I’m in love with, has got to go!” It was then that I saw him. A man who was obviously a visitor was frozen in his tracks with his right hand on the door and looking over his left shoulder to see what the fuss was all about. All I could do was smile and wave and hope that he didn’t know Kim and go warn her!

Oh, the tongue gets us into so much trouble, doesn’t it? We say things without thinking or in the wrong way or to the wrong person. You would think that we would have learned something, but once again you’d be wrong. James said that no man can tame the tongue (Jas. 3:8) and we are inclined to agree with him, aren’t we? So what can we do?

►We can think before we speak - no blurting or belting.
►We can be sure to speak with the right tone, for it communicates more than the words.
►We can refrain from saying anything. Not every thought or opinion is needed.
►We can speak words that are kind, helpful, encouraging, and appropriate.

I plan to keep on singing. I wouldn’t have it any other way. But in the future I’m going to be more careful about what comes out of my mouth and how it comes out and when it does so. That’s something that we can all do.

Gotta run!