Once upon a time, when I ran on the road more, I used to pray as I ran. After about 21 minutes, I would fall into an automatic mode; the body was on auto-pilot and I could pray.
1 mile per kid, 1 mile for my wife: it forces one to pray creatively and pretty thoroughly.
But on the trail, prayer does not come easily. Too much to monitor; rocks, uneven foot-falls, sticks, roots, water puddles, full on lakes (last week).
Now, here's what passes through my mind as I run:
monitor... how are the calves? I'm cramping up again; can I wait a little longer before taking a salt pill. Wow, there's the river.monitor... hot? Take off the long sleeve shirt yet?
A ROCK! Ouch.
Thirsty.
It's not real calm, not real steady.
I'm not complaining.
Running on a bad trail on a bad day is better than a good road on a good day.
Trails are great: eagles, deer, squirrels, rabbits, trees, trees, trees. Endless trees.
My knees love trails. For the last two weeks, we have seen a total of maybe 3 people in 10 hours of running. It's all good.
I just miss the praying aspect of running.
4 comments:
"Pray without ceasing" how about using that time to glorify the creator?? Just a thought that came to my mind as you listed His handywork.
Joel,
If you want me to stop talking just say so. Don't beat around the bush like this. I can take it.
Is this why you like to run behind me? I can ramble on and you can pretend to listen. I'm guessing you're still praying but now it's more like....Please Lord, make him stop talking for just one mile.
Ha, you're funny.
I'll be praying that I can whoop your butt tomorrow.
Another thought when your focus has to go to your body or terrain. Switch to the line a a worship song and repeat it like a chant. One of my favorites "Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord..."
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