If you would’ve asked me about my thoughts on running before the Race, my answer would’ve been somethings along the lines of : “It’s awful. I hate it. The worst possible form of exercise. I don’t know why anyone does it. It has to be from the devil.”
Since running is often my only option for exercise on the Race, I’ve calmed down and I have very different views on it, now. I’ve learned to really enjoy it and find peace and comfort in the familiarity of my running route.
Here in Pacasmayo, Peru, I typically run through a garbage dump, down towards the ocean, up a few hills, then turn around and come back. This all sounds good and fun, except for the fact that I said DOWN towards the ocean. That means that on the way back, I need to run UP this monster hill. That hill brings back those same thoughts of “what is running. Why am I doing this. I hate everything.”
I realized that the hardest part wasn’t running up the hill. I could push myself hard and make my legs keep going. I could keep on chugging when I needed to. The hardest part was the flat part at the top of the hill. It was so much easier to keep running and pushing up the hill, but when it all flattens out, it’s hard to keep your legs moving with the same force.
I realized that this is similar to my walk with Christ. It’s easy for me to persevere when I see an end in sight. It’s easy for me to keep going when I can hear the Lord cheering me on and encouraging me to keep running after Him. When He’s speaking things into me and calling me higher. Even though the run up the hill is hard, that’s when you hear the Lord encouraging you and pushing you forward.
Although the flat at the top is supposed to be restful, it’s more often a grind. It’s harder to keep running when you’re not constantly hearing the Lord’s voice. It’s harder to keep persevering when all you see is the flat ground and the dingy houses around you. But when you choose to keep going, you get to lift your head up and enjoy the view. You get to see the creativity of our Lord without needing to push super hard for every step.
Whether you’re running up a hill, trying to push through the flat, or taking time to coast down, I would encourage you to pick up your head today. Look up at your situation and count your blessings. See all of the cool, creative things that the Lord has put in your path. Every point of your run has different, unique views. Take time to appreciate them today
