Ever since the snow melted I have been training to run a half-marathon. Each week my mileage inched higher until my training was complete. I could cover the distance comfortably and even enjoyably. I was ready to race!
I planned on running the race in Ashland, Wisconsin. The Whistlestop Marathon and Half-Marathon looked perfect. It was held on a Saturday (most runs are on Sunday mornings), the weather should be cool, and most of the route was on crushed gravel which would be wonderful for these old joints. I was ready to rock!
The funny thing was, the closer race day came, the more uncomfortable I became about going. Something just wasn't right, so I delayed sending in my entry form. As I prayed about it I became more convinced that I shouldn't participate. There was a part of me that really, really wanted to...but that still small voice directed me not to. So I canceled my plans, not really being sure why I did.
Now I understand. You see, the race was the Saturday after Kelli died. There was no way that I could have driven to Ashland, run 13 miles, and driven home. I was emotionally spent, had a sermon and Sunday School lesson to prepare. It just wouldn't have happened.
Hindsight is 20/20. I can now understand why the Lord was telling me not to run the race, even though I had prepared all summer to do so. So was my training wasted? No, I am in much better physical shape than I was. I have the satisfaction of knowing that I can cover the distance. I have developed some healthy disciplines. I don't regret the training or missing the race.
Even more, I have had an experience of hearing the voice of the Lord and learning afresh the importance of obedience.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heard and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6.
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