How does someone go from thinking runners are a little crazy to running the Boston Marathon three times? It happened to me, and I’ll admit—I used to be one of those people who couldn’t understand the appeal of running as an adult. I was busy with a job and kids, and frankly, running seemed like unnecessary torture. Injuries, dehydration, and energy depletion didn’t sound like “fun.” But when I heard someone share their disappointing marathon story, something clicked. They explained how they trained for months, helped their friend train for their first marathon, and paid for a trip to run the Chicago Marathon. Unfortunately, the race was shut down by the race organizers while they were still out on the course due to the temps rising to 87 degrees.
Beginning to Run
I began to understand their passion for the sport and the challenge intrigued me. I started a marathon training plan but was soon sidelined by injuries. At first, it was frustrating but then I began to appreciate the journey, the healing process, and every single step I could take. I began eating healthy, monitoring my sleep, supplementing my diet, and treating muscle strains as needed to recover and become stronger. Running became less about a finish line and more about the transformation during the training. Four years later, I completed my first marathon, and it was unbelievable! Eight years after that, I ran my best race, ironically, at the Chicago Marathon. This race qualified me to run my first Boston Marathon in Boston.
Running became less about a finish line and more about the transformation during the training.
In many ways, my faith journey mirrors my journey as a runner. Growing up, I heard about Jesus from friends, but I wasn’t interested. Even in college, surrounded by Christians, I didn’t respond. It wasn’t until I saw someone struggle to live their faith authentically that I understood the challenge—and beauty—of following Christ.
Beginning to Follow Christ
When I finally surrendered my life to Him, I learned that faith continues long after that single moment of conversion and is an ongoing journey. Just like marathon training, walking with Christ requires persistence, trust, and growth through challenges. Reading the Bible, praying, and trusting God during difficult times reveals His strength in my weakness. It isn’t always easy, but His guidance is faithful, and His love is abundant.
Like marathon training, walking with Christ requires persistence, trust, and growth through challenges.
Encourage Others
If you’re praying for loved ones who don’t yet know Christ, take heart. Think of it as training for a spiritual marathon. My husband and I were married when I decided to follow Christ and, at first, my husband was not interested in learning about my new faith. After about four years, he too saw his need for a saviour and gave his life to Christ. It was absolutely incredible to see my other half dedicated to Christ! Each prayer is like a mile run, bringing you closer to God’s work in the lives of those you love. Trust that He has a plan for them, just as He has for you.
Christ’s Encouragement
And if you’re struggling in your own faith, remember: the journey with Christ is not about how fast you run but about the transformation along the way. As Hebrews 12:1 says, “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.”
So, lace up your spiritual running shoes. Pray. Read. Trust. God has a race marked out for you. Whether you’re training for a marathon or walking in faith, He’s running alongside you every step of the way.
Reflection Questions
- Are there areas in your life where you’ve been reluctant to take the first step?
- How can you embrace the journey, rather than focusing solely on the finish line?
- Who can you pray for today, asking God to guide them on their spiritual journey?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for being with me on every step of my journey. Help me to embrace the challenges and growth that come with walking in faith. Strengthen me to run the race You’ve set before me, and guide my prayers for others who have yet to know You. May my life reflect Your love and grace. Amen.
Happy Running,
