Category Archives: Running

National Running Day

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Today is National Running Day.

Running is one of my passions.  I was introduced to marathon running in 1998 and have finished ten since then. I continue to find the training and mental preparation for a marathon stimulating. Though all marathons are a challenge, some are more than others.

Six years ago I ran Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN. It was not a “pretty” marathon for me. Not only did the high humidity and warm temperatures zap the strength of most runners, it also shrouded scenic Lake Superior in fog. The clouds kept it bearable for the first hour, but then the sun broke out and turned the race into a steam bath. I finished in 3:47 but I was not a pretty picture coming across the finish line.

What gave me strength was the community around me. I started off with my friends Steve Libby, Gary Van Cleve, and Bill Treiber near the 3:30 pace group. Steve and I stayed together with the pace group through mile 13; Steve was running strong and hoping to BQ (Boston Marathon Qualifier). I had to drop back at that point due to a four minute port-a- potty break. (I said it wasn’t a “pretty” marathon!) I struggled alone from mile 13 to 22. Then on Lemon Drop Hill, my son Jonathan showed up and ran with me to the finish. His words of encouragement kept my feet moving forward.

In Hebrews 12, the people of God are reminded that we are surrounded by a cloud of invisible witnesses, those faithful people of God who have died and rest with God. They are cheering for us in our life marathon as we race, walk, struggle, waddle, crawl towards Jesus Christ, the race director and pace setter. But I don’t think “cloud of witnesses” is restricted to the dead. Some of those who witness to me are my fellow runners who continue to give words of encouragement and inspiration as I struggle to run life’s course. Many have given me courage and strength. Thank you.

Hebrews 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.

Thank you Jesus for the ability to encourage others.

My Joy and My Crown

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Running with Joy is TRUE Running

JOY is one spiritual emotion that many seek. Paul writes about joy in his letter to the church at Philippi.

I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you. (Phil 1:3-4).

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice. (Phil 1:18)

My brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and my crown (Phil 4:1).

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice (Phil 4:4)

Though there are connections, Christians often confuse joy with happiness. There is a difference. Like its root, happiness often depends on happenstance, on the situation. But joy rests in God. Paul was in prison when he wrote his letter to the Philippians, contemplating his possible execution. Yet the letter was his most joyous.

Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you , and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11).   He spoke these words as he ate his final meal before his death.

Frederick Buechner writes,

Happiness turns up more or less where you expect it to—a good marriage, a rewarding job, a pleasant vacation. Joy, on the other hand, is as notoriously unpredictable as he one who bequeaths it. (Beyond Words, p. 204).

However, there are times I  struggle with Buechner, especially his comments about jogging.

 Jogging is supposed to be good for the heart, the lungs, the muscles, and physical well-being generally.  It is also said to produce a kindof euphoria known as jogger’s high.
The look of anguish and despair that contorts the faces of most of the people you see huffing and puffing at it, by the side of the road, however, is striking.  If you didn’t know directly form them that they are having the time of their lives, the chances are you wouldn’t be likely to guess it. (Beyond Words, p. 191)

I will try to remember to smile more when I run.

Lord Jesus, let my joy be ever you.

The Fun in Run For Others

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Last Saturday, I joined other runners from Resurrection LC to run in the Cemstone Run for Others 5K/10K race. We had a blast benefiting Habitat for Humanity. Though I ran most of the 10K race by myself, the challenge and the course volunteers kept me motivated. I even got a prize for taking second in my age group!

Running is often thought of as a solitary sport. You don’t need any teammates to have a good run. Like many other runners, I enjoy the solitude of a run as a time of reflection and prayer.

Yet the camaraderie of a race is special. In a race setting, one feels the urge to do one’s best. I think the competition pushes me to test my limits, to learn how to persevere in a difficult task. I don’t have to win or even set a personal best to benefit from being part of a race.  Running in a race gives me the affirmation, “I am a runner.”

The joy and excitement of Saturday was contagious. I stand next to my friend and pastoral colleague, Mike Carlson, who was running his first race in several years. We are flanked by two great race directors, Scott Folgelson and Tim Torgerson. It was a wonderful morning for run and fun fellowship.

Also, I am so thankful for all the volunteers who gave of their time and energy to make the day special and safe. They worked hard so that the runners could focus on the race. I have volunteered at road races and the tasks can be tedious or boring. Yet without the volunteers, the race could not happen. Tim Torgerson has directed the Cemstone Run For Others race for over a decade and his efforts are to lifted up.

St. Paul writes that the church is one body, but made up of many members (I Cor. 12). Each person and part is needed for the Body of Christ to function well. We all have a part to play in our church, community and world. God has gifted each of us to participate. So whether you race, volunteer or cheer, get involved and have some fun.

Lord Jesus, continue to call me into active service in your name.

Racing with St. Patrick

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Today we celebrate one of God’s great saints.

There will be a variety of St. Patrick Day celebrations, including road races. Many of the races will feature post-race celebrations, including green alcohol.

It has always been curious to me that a day dedicated to an evangelist and missionary should become the focus of such drinking and carousing. Not that I am against parties, since I can  enjoy post-race celebrations very much. But when people think of St. Patrick they seem to focus on the Patrick and not the Saint.

But that is even more curious, since St. Patrick was born in England, captured by Irish raiders and sold as a slave in Ireland. After serving as a shepherd for six years, he escaped and made his way back to England. During this adventure, he had a conversion to Christianity and he felt the call to preach the faith to (surprise!) the Irish people. He studied for the priesthood in France but was not a very good student. His superiors did not want him to go, but still he went. He preached all over Ireland, making converts and founding monasteries. He became a great hero, not only for Ireland, but for the Christian faith.

In his confession he wrote, “If I am worthy, I am ready also to give up my life, without hesitation, and most willingly, for his name. I want to spend myself in that country, even in death, if the Lord should grant me this favor. I am deeply in his debt, for he gave me the great grace that through me many people would be reborn in God, and then made perfect by confirmation, one people gathered by the Lord.”

St. Patrick reminds me of St. Paul.  St. Paul wrote, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). St. Patrick, like St. Paul, ran the good race. Maybe we should try to run like him.

Lord Jesus, teach me to run the race of life with you and your saints.

Hope Runs Eternal

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The biggest problem with Minnesota winters is not the severity: not the deep cold, not the large snow falls, not the short dark nights. The real problem is the duration. Winter drags into March and even parts of April. There may be teasers of warm weather, but winter usually has a second or third slam to deliver.

What a difference this year. Not just one day of beautiful warm spring weather, but a whole week. I was able to run the trails at Afton State Park today and though muddy, it was a delight. What a joy to be alive. The exercise, prayer and sunshine gave me a feeling of hope. After all, hope runs eternal.

As a Christian, hope is a critical part of my belief system. I recognize that life is often cruel, unfair and extremely difficult. I remember that every time I do a funeral or visit a hospital room. I also remember it when I make the yearly journey with Jesus to Calvary and the cross. Here is someone who was willing to suffer and die, in the hope of the resurrection. Jesus died for me and he rose for me. I cannot prove the resurrection, but I see plenty of evidence in the New Testament and in the lives of God’s people. I am hopeful that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet. “While we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” Titus 2:13 (NRSV)

 My own hopeful news is that after nearly a year layoff, my running is back strong. Thanks for the many words of encouragement and prayers. As I was running Afton, I thought about its 25K trail race this July. Anyone want to join me? God is good!

Lord Jesus, let me run or walk or sit or be with you daily.

The Blessing of Rain

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Rain is falling today in Minnesota. Usually that would be a source of complaint for me. The grey skies and cold rain makes my outdoor runs more challenging. Yet there is a nostalgic quality to rain; I grew up in western Washington where grey clouds and drizzle were a steady part of winter and spring. Delivering newspapers in the rain was a challenge as I pedaled the five-mile route through deep puddles and muddy roads. Now I realize that my paper route built the base and character for long-distance running, even through the rain.

Today’s rain is also a blessing for the farmers of Minnesota. Though too much rain can be a problem, the current soil moisture is below average.  The soil needs water in order to yield crops this summer and fall.

Being the pastor of a suburban church bordered by cornfields, I have grown in awareness how much weather affects the daily life of farmers. Forty years ago, Woodbury was nearly all farms, but they are steadily being turned into housing subdivisions, parks, office buildings and churches. Larry Fredin, a member and farmer, keeps me updated on the weekly activities of local farms and weather. Today’s rain is good.

Part of my Lenten discipline has been reading Luther Seminary daily on-line devotional, called God-Pause. Today’s devotional (3/12/2012)  by Diane Jacobson centered on water for a thirsty land from Isaiah 44:3

For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour my spirit upon your descendants, and my blessing on your offspring.

Professor Jacobson wrote, “In today’s passage, God’s covenant promise goes beyond our expectations. God’s promise of pouring out real water on a thirsty land is parallel to the divine Spirit being poured out on the people. Water and Spirit are both instruments of blessing. Baptismal promises echo throughout the land and the voices of nature and humanity join in praise to God.”

The weather forecast for tomorrow is sunny and possibly 70 degrees. I know I will enjoy that when I go for my run. But today’s rain is still a blessing. Thanks be to God.

Oh Lord, send your healing and life-giving rains to all the dry land.

The US Run

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Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2

The physical exercise of running appeals to many for its solitary nature. Unlike other sports, one can easily do it alone. When I run by myself, I can do some mental reflection and prayer, seeking peace and tranquility in the steady rhythm of breath and footsteps. I run my own pace, walk when necessary, sprint when desired. Alone, I can enjoy many running benefits.

Yet I also know the power of a community run. The group gives me encouragement and incentive, pushing me beyond my normal boundaries. I especially appreciate other runners during the long runs of marathon training. The Saturday morning ritual of gathering with others gets me up early. I feel a certain obligation to be ready for the sake of other runners. The group conversation can keep me going when the miles are long or when I struggle with some bad patches. I have discovered that a good running group is essential for my development as a runner.

The writer of Hebrews seems to have that community focus as well. In chapter eleven, the writer highlights a number of Old Testament heroes who demonstrated faith in God: Noah, Abraham, Moses and Rehab. And at the beginning of chapter twelve, the writer describes these deceased heroes as “a cloud of witness,” rooting and cheering us on in our faith race. We do not run alone, the writer makes clear. He does not write, “Let me run with perseverance the race that is set before me.” Rather, “Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.” Our faith, though personal, is never in isolation.

I am so thankful for those friends and companions who have pushed me to become a better runner. I am even more thankful for my brothers and sisters in Christ, who push me to become a more faithful follower of Jesus Christ. Together we can finish the race of faith.

Lord Jesus, connect me to your people that I might look to you, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.

Buying the Bib

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This afternoon I registered for the Twin Cities Marathon on October 7. I did it after completing a cold 5 miles run and noticed an immediate lift in my mood. I was excited to get started in the training. I realize the psychological lift comes partially from setting goals and working towards them. I have completed ten marathons since 1999, but skipped 2011 for a variety of reasons. Now that I have “bought the bib,” I need to back it up with proper training.

Running last Wednesday with friends Tim and Dave, we talked about proper training. Proper training means not being a slave to a training program and learning to listen carefully to our bodies. It means the gradual increase of weekly mileage and seeking the balance between rest and hard training. Above all it means perseverance towards the goal. I know that my initial enthusiasm will wane in the coming weeks as the training intensifies.

What has helped me a great deal in my past training has been a good group with which to do the weekly long run. As those weekly runs gradually climb to over fifteen miles or more than two hours, I appreciate having company to encourage or distract me. When I might have quit and turned back early, the group seemed to pull me along. Running is often a solitary sport, but a good running group can be a true blessing. Being now at Resurrection Lutheran, I look forward to find some new running friends.

The Apostle Paul used the image of a foot race in his writings. The Hellenistic world where he preached continued to celebrate the Olympic Games. The Games included several foot races, from 200 meters to 5 kilometers. (The marathon race is a modern development with ancient roots.) Paul had a much more serious “marathon,” establishing new missionary outposts in the cities and towns of Asia Minor and Greece. He persevered through tremendous opposition to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. He preached in a world where people were often more interested in who won the last Olympic wreath than in who could bring them eternal vibrant life. Sounds a bit like today. Near the end of his life Paul wrote, “”I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Lord Jesus, train me to fight your good fight and to finish the race you have set before me.

Running Crazy

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When I started this blog, I intended to write more about my running passion. For various reasons I have not. Last winter I was recovering from a chronic injury. Last summer I started running again, but got too aggressive too fast, and hit another injury that slowed my return to consistent running.

Runners are often injured. Gather three runners together and you will have an instant debate on how to treat six types of injuries. Once I talked to my doctor about a running injury. After listening to me for less than a minute, he told me, “Stop running. It will only ruin your hips and knees.” Needless to say, I did not like his diagnosis so I went in search of a new doctor. He is the Dr. William Roberts, the medical director of the Twin Cities Marathon. When I tell him I have some running issue he sends me to a physical therapist.

I have been to at least five different physical therapist and each has helped me. My most recent experience with Shannon Maixner at Fitness Focus was the most thorough and helpful. I continue to incorporate several of her exercises into my daily routine and see definite benefit.  I realize that to remain a runner I must broaden my cross-training.

I am writing about this today because I reached a new milestone today. I have run seven days in a row without pain or injury. All my runs were relatively short and slow, in the three to four mile range. Partly it is an experiment to see if frequent, short runs help my body adapt better. Partly it has been the mild winter weather in Minnesota and my need to be outside.

Running is one of the few sports mentioned in the Bible. Paul uses the analogy of the runner’s training to describe his commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I do it all for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings. Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win it. Athletes exercise self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one.(I Cor. 9:23-25).

There may come a day when I will not be able to run, but until then, I plan to run often and with joy.

Lord Jesus, teach me to joyously run, walk, and dance with you.

Jonathan Grows Up

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I certainly am a proud papa as I prepare to celebrate my son’s wedding on Friday.  Carolyn and I thought we had the perfect name for our first-born, Jonathan, since he was “a gift of God” and his name, Jonathan, would distinguish him from his father, John.   And for years he was always Jonathan.   At church he learned to roam the hallways at a young age and delighted in being in the church nursery.

Jonathan with leg cast

However, one Sunday morning, a nursery attendant pulled me out of worship because my two-year-old son would not stand up on his left leg.  He had been jumping over things and somehow broke his leg.  I took him to the hospital where he received a leg cast.  At first he would not leave my lap.  But within a week he re-learned to walk and then run.  The next Sunday he was back at church, scooting through the narthex traffic in search of a cookie.   He has always been on the move, seeking new adventures, challenges and relationships.  Later at confirmation camp, he broke his collar bone, playing football.  Within a few hours, he figured out he could still throw the football and he became the designated quarterback with a no-tackle rule.  As he grew, his friends started calling him Jon instead of Jonathan.  It was quicker; you had to be fast to get his attention.

Jon runs for Minnehaha Academy

I also rejoice that he has chosen to run and live with passion.   He always been a competitor, working hard to achieve his goals, whether it was being the best cross-country runner or academic scholar.  That passion has led him to start his own company with some friends: MNY group.  His passion pushed him to seek the best spouse: Maggie Thomas.  She already brings incredible joy and laughter to Jon and our family.  I am praying that they find a good pace together.

And most importantly Jon continues to run with Jesus Christ as his Lord.  Though many will be calling him Jon this week-end and I will be confused, he will continue to my Jonathan, “a gift of God.”