RUNNING ENEMIES

As a runner,  I have four formidable enemies.

A headwind kicks my butt. There are days I get dressed for a run only to walk outside, feel a breeze and turn around to head straight for the treadmill.

Hills, although I’m more determined to conquer them,  also leave me wiped out.

Heat is my nemesis and that’s no small thing when you live in Texas.

And early morning is my least favorite time of day to lace up my Brooks.

Half way into my run this morning,  I realized I was facing all four minions at one time and I just about called someone to pick me up – until the song changed and I realized God was speaking.  He does that often when I’m working out.  I’ve never figured out if it’s because I’m exhausted and my defenses are down or if it’s because I’m focused and undistracted.  Regardless, I was done and he had something for me to learn.

We’ve had this conversation many times through the years so I guess I shouldn’t have to be reminded but…ya know.   This morning I was frustrated and wanted to push really hard and prove something to myself.  I wasn’t in the mood for a healthy and low stress walk or jog. This run was about conquering something that may have been more emotional than physical.   Little did I know, I would be faced with conquering that as well as all four of my running enemies at one time. Honestly, I couldn’t do it.  I couldn’t conquer them quickly and I wasn’t sure I’d conquer them at all.  The truth is I just wanted to quit.

Jesus knows me so well.  He knows how stubborn and impatient I am.  He knows how hard I am on myself.  He even knows how scared I can be even when I don’t realize it, but He has such a sweet way of giving me “pictures” that can explain more than words.  As I found myself gasping for air and about to quit,  it’s as if He said, ” Sometimes this is life.  I know it seems like too much but just keep moving.   We can take it slow.  We can take breaks. Just don’t quit.  Remember, I rule the wind and the sun.  I can make the hills into plains.  I can turn your mourning into dancing.   Keep your eyes on me.  Look right at me….Sing right to me.  I’m your hope.”

Funny thing is,  I made it home.  It wasn’t my best time ever but it wasn’t my worst and I didn’t quit.  How little I think I can handle sometimes.  If I could only remember that God is on my side and that Jesus is walking with me I think I wouldn’t be so afraid of the pain, hills, wind, sun and exhaustion.  His love is amazing.  His strength is never ending.  His grace overwhelms me.

I think I’ll follow him anywhere… it just may be at a slower pace on some days.