“Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
Hebrews 12:1-3
Early in the morning on February 23, my family and I made our way to Ft. Worth to run the 1/2 marathon alongside many current and former gap students and friends.
This 1/2 marathon was the completion of months of training for these fine young folks. Since September, for three days a week, they have trained and prepared for this one day. Seeing them finish a nearly unreachable goal was a true joy. Seeing the satisfaction on their faces was beyond words.
Q: Why do we run a 1/2 marathon as part of a Christian discipleship program?
A: Lesson after life-lesson, spiritually, emotionally, physically, and more are tied up in that season of training and exhausting endeavor.
God, raise up resilient, courageous, and gritty young adults to face this world with confidence and awe. Amen.
— February 27, 2025