Contributed by Darren Lim • Feb 27, 2024
The story of John Stephen Akhwari (see link), the Tanzanian runner who finished last at the Summer Olympics race in 1968, reminded me of my own humble running journey. I have always prided myself as more of the endurance type. I may not be the fastest or strongest nor the most athletic, but I can go toe-to-toe any day, any place when it comes to persistence and distance. Bring it on.
My first and only (so far) maiden full marathon was an excruciatingly painful experience. I power walked (think walking fast) the last 10km after developing a nasty tendonitis. Every step sent shots of pain behind the leg just above the heel. Guess there is a reason why that part is called Achilles tendon. Nowadays, I psych myself with mind tricks to head out for outdoor runs in the cold of mornings when it is quiet and my mind is telling me to snuggle back under the sheets. I visualise two things: First, how I would feel at the end of that day after all the unhealthy bingeing. This run was advanced payment for cheat day. Second, I would visualise the euphoric feeling immediately after the run. I find something within to get out the door and out to the streets and then it becomes automatic.
However, I wish I could say the same about my daily spiritual walk with God. The physical stick-ability doesn’t seem to transfer over to consistent daily quiet time and reading of Scripture. It is a struggle to keep up with the Bible reading plans. Mornings are always a mad rush to prepare the kids for school and myself for work. It was all I could do to somehow squeeze in some exercise before and YouVersion audio on the way to work. Note to self – Somewhere in the recesses of the mind, you know that is a convenient excuse.
I miss MCO time where I was consistently seeking the God of the Bible. Journaling all the “AHA” moments and hard knock revelations from the Holy Spirit came naturally. Nowadays, it is a rare occasion to move beyond the electronic and back to the physical Bible. And when I do, I am left amazed looking at the insights that were previously scribbled on the left and right sides of the pages. God’s Word felt alive then and it spoke directly into my life.
Just like running, I resolve to be reminded of the daily urgency to, above all else, seek His face daily. That eternity is not some distant future but it is here and now. Every moment may be the last and so to make it count. To be found as God’s engaged athlete, disciplined soldier and faithful servant is the most wonderful reward at the end of the present life.
Holy Spirit, I know that great accomplishments begin with small consistent steps. Let my daily discipline not be an exercise of personal will but one of personal desire to please God. In my daily walk, continue to remind me that the Lord’s power is made perfect in my struggles and in my challenges. Less it be falling into the trap of self sufficiency, teach me to humbly surrender in full dependence on the grace and power of Jesus. Amen.
