Working Willingly...Starting with the Turkey Wobble!

Several years ago when I first started running, I basked in the thrill of faster times, longer distances and enjoyed the competitiveness of 5K races. Now with much more time as 'a runner', I've turned into a lazy runner! My running routine consists of the same route, same routine, speed, little exertion or challenge to excel. I haven't competed in a 5K in a few years now.

This weekend our town hosts a 5K Turkey Wobble. This was just the spark I needed in my running. In preparation this week, I ran and timed myself for 3.1 miles, learned to push through fatigue, regulate my breathing and finished in an acceptable time. It's amazing what some anticipation can do for you!

The last day of training, my goal was to go 3 miles, then simply walk as I finished the run. Feeling good with some extra time remaining that morning after I hit the goal, I kept on. There is such an adrenaline rush when you find your goal and push past it! Step by step, breath by breath I gave it my all and ending up completing 6 miles...far beyond just acceptable.

As Christians, our spiritual walk is compared to a marathon - a place where training and preparation meet. Our end goal is to follow and obey Scripture where we are to live a life worthy of our Lord. Each step counts. Situations and crisis bring us fatigue and can feel overwhelming. But we press on. Endurance comes from pushing through the hard times.

Scripture also exhorts us to 'work willingly as unto the Lord'. It sounds like an unattainable goal, but it is more of a lifestyle. Our words, actions and attitudes should bypass and exceed simply what we have to do, as we go higher and push towards our best.

Today, I feel ready for the Turkey Wobble! I won't be the fastest or go the farthest, but I will complete it to the best of my ability, knowing I've trained and am prepared. May each of us on our own path, be prepared to face life with more that we have to, to push forward in hard times and keep our focus on God's great plan and purpose for us!

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