My husband and I like to trail run... well, he likes to trail run, I like to trail run/walk/gasp/creep. We also like to compete in races. He usually medals in the top three; I sometimes luck out and am the only competitor in my age group. Lately, I've come to realize that there are some valuable lessons to be learned on the trail.
The writer of Hebrews tells us to run with endurance the race before us. Lesson number 1: you can't change the route of the race come race day; and you can't win the race without sticking to the route.
We don't often have a choice of the path we're on -- yes, our decisions and circumstances impact our life's journey, but often, we simply end up on a path we didn't plan on. Regardless of how we got here, the path we're on is the path we have to run. Finishing the race requires staying focused on the trail, on the next step, on not stumbling, or wandering off, but enduring to the finish line. The trail can seem endless sometimes, with so many twists and turns it is easy to get frightened and frustrated. But giving up isn't an option, changing trails isn't possible, wishing for an easier terrain or pretending that you are on a different path only prolongs the inevitable. To finish the race, you have to continue on.
Tomorrow morning we have another race. Four miles through, up, and down a canyon. I'm not really in shape -- lately I've put on some extra pounds, sloughed off training, and haven't worked out in weeks, but the race is tomorrow, and tomorrow I must run it. Sometimes, running with endurance means just doing the best you can with what you have.
1 comment:
Great thoughts. Acceptance of the trail your on can make a big difference in life.
Greg
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