2nd Leg: TCR Series

The second leg of the triple crown running series has been checked off my list which means I am now officially entered for the Pikes Peak Ascent run on August 20th. Yay me! Okay - enough with the self validation.

It's amazing how little mile stones in life can bring such a sense of accomplishment. Before this year I had never run a race in my life and now I am about to embark on a race to the top of a freaking mountain. That's all good, but the true question is... what do you run for? Yes, setting goals is good. Pushing yourself to your limit is good. Having dreams is good. But I want more than just good.

Have you ever watched the movie Chariots of Fire? I love this movie. I'm sure you are envisioning runners on a beach to the theme song about now...

However, if you've really watched this movie, you know that it is about more than just running. Eric Liddell recognizes his talent for running is a gift and chooses to honor God. The best line of the movie..."I believe God made me for a purpose. But he also made me FAST. And when I run, I feel his pleasure."

I've been reminded lately of the brevity of life reality. One thing that is certain for all of us is our days are numbered. Beloved reader, please know that I'm not trying to bring you down. I probably am writing this more for myself. The finish line of life is something to run towards, but as you run, make sure that you feel God's pleasure along the way.

What does this mean? Simple - Honor God in your dreams, passions, talents. After all, where do you think these things came from? (I'm not going to go into the whole "we came from dirt" bogus thing here.) And as you honor your creator a strange thing happens, your dreams, passions, talents suddenly become a way to glorify God. The focus changes. The need for self validation fades and glorification emerges.

So, my goal is, yes, to make to the top of Pikes Peak next month, but more than that.. I want to run well. I want to feel God's pleasure.

"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint."