Human psychology baffles me often, but one thing I know is that having a clear goal makes me work harder.  A recent goal for me has been to reestablish my running routine after a year’s break due to injury.  This morning I was able to run 5 miles in 45 minutes, which is close to my daily running routine of two years ago.  Now that I have reached this goal, I am looking for my next one.

For me a road race is a great goal for me.  I know that I will not be ready for another marathon for at least a year, so I have chosen to run a race on Saturday, September 17, the Run for a Mission, sponsored by the Union Gospel Mission in St. Paul.    I am inviting all runner and walkers to join me for the 5K or 10K run in Shoreview. Volunteers are also welcomed and all proceeds go to help the homeless in St. Paul.

Goals are not only beneficial in physical exercise, but in spiritual disciplines as well.  To have a daily time of prayer and devotional reading is a great goal to focus your time with God.  Set apart 10-15 minutes in the morning or evening to seek companionship with the Creator of the Universe, who cares about you.  Perhaps you leave 10 minutes earlier for work or you seek 15 minutes quiet after putting the children in bed. Mine is the first 20 minutes in my office to seek God’s guidance for the day, and compassion in all my personal encounters.   Jesus took time early in the day to pray to his Papa in heaven.  

In the morning , while it was still very dark, Jesus got up and went out to a deserted place to pray. Mark 1:35

Jesus prays at Gethesmane by artist He Qi

At the end of his ministry, he took time to pray in the Garden.  Jesus modeled the Vibrant Life of Faith for us today.

I am off to Camp Wapogasset  to be with nearly 50 campers from Resurrection. Thanks for all the prayer support.

What goals are you setting this week, month, year?

Lord Jesus, I seek to be your disciple this day.  Help me to seek goals that please you and your kingdom. Amen