While I’ve been taking a forced break from running (hamstring), my mind has wandered to many places, as it is prone to do. One of the places has been the collision between running and faith. Exciting things can happen there! 🙂
But first, according to the unquestionable source of truth called the Internet, did you know that:
Women are more likely to achieve negative splits than men
Runners who wear red clothing are more likely to win during competitions
Running more than 80km per week increases your risk of respiratory illness
Running in colder weather is safer than running on a hot day
And in the Bible, running is connected with:
Bringing good or bad news (2 Samuel 18:25-27)
Saving someone’s life (2 Kings 4:29)
The crucifixion of Jesus (Matthew 27:48)
The resurrection of Jesus (Matthew 28:8)
A demon-possessed man (Mark 5:6)
A compassionate father (Luke 15:20)
Training to win a race (! Corinthians 9:24-25)
Interesting information, right, but so what? Why talk about running and faith? Here’s why: the experience of running is a remarkable metaphor for living a life of faith. In other words, in both running and faith …
The journey is as important as the destination. Don’t prioritize one over the other.
The best experiences require disciple and dedication. The hard work is worth it.
Ongoing nourishment is key, especially over long distances. Have and follow a strategy.
There will be times of adrenaline-pumping excitement and extended desolation and suffering. Embrace both.
There will be times of community and isolation. Embrace both.
Once you’ve tasted the high, you’ll want to stay there forever. Soak in it, when it happens.
Faith has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. By comparison, I’ve been running for only seven years. I’ve learned and experienced a lot with both, and the way I see it, each one speaks into the other in some amazing ways.
What about you? Do you see any connections between running and faith?
What about Proverbs 28:1a?
“The wicked run when no one is chasing them…”