Run with endurance

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Hebrews 12:1-2

I remembered the words of a friend and fellow runner while I was running today, "Some days you'll feel strong and some days you'll feel weak."  Today was a weak day for sure!  I was tired, grumpy, and just plain uncomfortable, but I ran anyway.  I moved a little slower, but I was still moving!  I just kept putting one foot in front of the other until my 2 mile route was finished.  There was no elation, no affirmation, no fanfare, just me and my running shoes pounding the sidewalk step after tedious step. 

God reminded me of the verses in Hebrews 12 as I ran.  My life is analogous to my runs.  Some days are filled with joy, gratitude, words of affirmation, and just plain feeling good about everything, and some days aren't.  Some days it is hard to get out of bed and put one foot in front of the other, but I do it.  God knew there would be hard days.  Otherwise, He would not have said to run with PERSEVERANCE.  On days that I am strong, running is easy and joyful and fun and it doesn't require perseverance...I enjoy every step and I can't believe it when I reach the end of my driveway.  On days when I am weak, I need to fix my eyes on Jesus while I am running and while I am "running the race marked out" for me.  It would be amazing if there were always people cheering me on as I run, both literally and figuratively, and there are definitely encouragers along my way.  I am choosing to fix my eyes on Jesus.  His affirmations will fill me up to overflowing and keep me running the race marked out for me so that I can encourage others who just happen to be running the same direction!