Thursday, June 08, 2006

Running the race...

*Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly...* (1 Cor. 9:24-26)

*Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep* Romans 12:15

*And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need... praising God and having favor with all the people. And the LORD added to their number day by day those who were being saved.* (Acts 2:44-45,47)

(notice the red-rimmed eyes! :) This was minutes after I woke up both my roommates!)
We may never understand why we are the best of friends on the opposite ends of the globe. Our friendship does not make "sense" in the eyes of the world~ we don't have sleepovers every Friday, you're married, I'm single, we have never lived in the same town, in fact I have no friend like you... in you God has given me a sister, a confidant, and a treasure. You didn't just provide~ you showed me that God is still working, still wanting me to be a part of what HE IS DOING. Sometimes I wondered if I was here by mistake... He is worthy! You have spoken His message... Praise Him!

I am honored to run (both literally though apart and figuratively) this race with you. I am honored that God would give me you and Marcus. That just when my body is tired and I long for the finish line that is not in sight, I look over and there you two are. Both of you, running with me and encouraging me. Oh, man! I just thought of when Marcus practically carried my tired body up Mt. Albert and I started crying again. (ok, I gotta go to bed! hee hee hee)

But it's true... and even now Marcus's words encouraged me, "What are we living for? I do not have a thing in this world. What is the worst that can happen! We have less and God is glorified!"

May it be!

Cupping my chin,
turning my face,
toward Him again,
He says, "I will never leave you, nor forsake you." (Hbs. 13:5)
for what it's worth...
thank you

1 comment:

Kelli B said...

Ah, sister-friend.

Thank you for the post. We deserve NOTHING - no thank you, no note, no recognition. Nothing.

It is a joy that Christ lives in us. That is enough - because it is HE who extends outwardly from our clumsy bodies and very existence, reaching out to those in need. Using what little we have; what seems little to me is the greatest thing to someone else.

it's all a mystery...but I am thankful to be a part of it.

Ah, Mt Elbert...you silly friend - what a fond memory. Hey - did you notice in my shadow box (i blogged about it) i used the picture of our group from Mt. Elbert? I think that was THE BEST group I could've hiked with. It's interesting. Looking back - seeing our faces and thinking about that trek. We all learned a lot during those 8-10 hours! :)

Of all days, I feel overwhelmed w/ emotions my friend. I deeply miss you today. I'm glad the journal is in your hands - and I cant wait to hear from you.

PS-you motivate me to run this marathon. I'm running to obtain something not of this earth...and I see you doing the same.

Love ya.