Have you ever been sidelined by injury or illness, unable to run when your heart was set on the starting line? It’s frustrating, isn’t it? I know that feeling all too well. I spent years training for my first marathon, only to be derailed by a persistent knee injury—not once, not twice, but three times. Doctors gave conflicting advice, and I felt stuck, wondering if I’d ever achieve my goal. But God had a bigger plan.

Eventually, I found a doctor who believed I could heal without surgery. The journey was long and challenging, but when I crossed that marathon finish line, it felt like a miracle. That experience taught me something powerful: God designed our bodies with incredible potential. With proper care—optimal fuel, rest, recovery, and perseverance—we can overcome barriers we once thought insurmountable.

In Matthew 4:23, we read that Jesus went throughout Galilee, “proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.” His miracles weren’t just about physical restoration; they brought spiritual renewal and joy. When we are healthy, we can serve God and others with greater energy and focus. We can share His love with more passion and purpose.

Looking back, I wouldn’t have chosen the setbacks that kept me from running those early races. But through them, God taught me patience, resilience, and the value of healing. I discovered a deeper appreciation for the body He created and the lessons it can teach us when we care for it. Those lessons even led me to a career in nursing, where I now help others find healing and freedom from pain.

Running has become a metaphor for my faith journey. It’s not about how fast or far we go, but about pressing on, trusting God through the challenges, and finding joy in the process. So, as runners, let’s commit to stewarding the bodies God gave us. Let’s fuel them well, train wisely, and rest when needed. But more importantly, let’s let our running—and our lives—be an act of worship. May our endurance, resilience, and victories, small or large, point others to the One who made us capable of so much more than we could ever imagine.

Happy Running!