An Unwanted Running Sabbatical

So far, 2007 has proved to be a year of injuries. First there was a hamstring problem in January. Then I had issues with my right knee - an issue the doctor thought was "runner's knee syndrome." Both resolved themselves quite nicely. Unfortunately, now I'm dealing with a problem with my left knee. It seems a lot worse than what was going on with my right knee a couple months ago. I went to the doctor and he is suspecting torn cartilage. Hmm... never had this before. This morning I had an MRI and though the technician couldn't give me specific details, he did see fluid build up where there wasn't supposed to be any. He said he really couldn't tell me anything else and so I have to wait until I see my doctor this coming week.

Hence, I am on an unwanted running sabbatical. But, I'm trying to be accepting without becoming too crabby. Anyone keeping up with my running through out the years would think I must be getting pretty good about turning in my running shoes because every now and then it seems that is exactly what the Lord allows and calls me to do. It usually becomes something that the Lord uses for good and I am able to concentrate on other projects or things He would have me do. I've already been getting a project done I probably wouldn't have started yet if I wasn't on this "no running" stretch. So, once again, I'm learning to let go, let God, hand over my running shoes and let Him put back into my hands something else.

I am hoping to do some swimming though which would be a good thing if I can muster up the courage to do some laps. I haven't swam laps in over a year. Since last summer I didn't train for a triathlon, I didn't do any laps. So, it will be interesting to see how I feel in the water again. I did go ahead and buy me some new goggles and a swim cap, so I am somewhat serious and determined to get wet! Well, we'll see what the doctor says about my left knee and what the prognosis may be.

Runner/Fisherman

Running log catch up: Ran 4 miles on 6/4, 4 miles on 6/6, and 4 miles on 6/8! That made a weekly total of 12 miles! I haven't done that in a while, so I was pleased. My next run was on Sunday the 10th and I ran 5 miles. I haven't ran 5 miles in a while either, so I was thrilled! I thought I might try to go for it since I was feeling pretty good and I was just enjoying my time reflecting about Christ's call on the Christian's life to be a "fisher of men." When I approached the turn point that leads me to the four mile mark, I just ran right through it! From that point on I was committed to going 5. It really was a wonderful run.

As I ran on Sunday, I reflected on a recent Christian outreach event that took place on Friday evening. There's much to say, but I'll keep it to this: God orchestrated something that no one could have planned and it was something that took me and others by surprise. I saw Him at work and I as well as many others were privileged to be part of it. After the gospel had been given, the teens who had questions/or a desire to dialogue further were direct to a certain location. As I walked into the area I saw a group of teens walk back out of the room. It was at that point where I heard the Lord speak in that still small voice of His to "Go after them, for I have called you to be a fisherman!" And so I did. I went fishing in the name of Christ for those teens. I was able to speak to a group of 4 girls. I reiterated the gospel to them. I said that they were not here by chance or coincidence, but that God had brought them to this place. To my surprise, they stood there and listened to me. Then we all prayed! Did any of them receive Christ? I don't know the answer to that question, but my Jesus does. What I do know is that many seeds were sown in their hearts and I will pray that God waters those seeds and that some day they will bloom into the saving faith of knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior!

I was able to talk to others too. It was a good night and a night that renewed my identity. I am many things. I'm a Christian, a wife, a mother, a daughter, an aunt, a sister, a pastor's wife, a friend, and yes a runner! But I am a fisherman too and was thankful to be reminded of this awesome, entrusted privilege. I hope to keep my fishing gear ready. Besides, with summer here, it's fishing season anyway! At least it always seems to work that way. It seems I'm always having more contact with people during the warm and sunny months. So, let's go fishing!