This morning as the alarm went off at 5:00 am, I was quick to pray for God's grace to rain down on me. I did not sleep too well, nor did I sleep too well the night before. But, sleep or no sleep, I had committed to doing this team tri with my nephew's wife, Beka. She was going to be my runner after my efforts at swimming and biking were completed.So, we met up, signed in, and had the number 74 written on our right arms and my right lower leg since Beka, as the runner, was to wear our number on her shirt. Her baby hadn't given her much sleep either, so we were set on just doing our best. Ready or not, I was there with a job to do! We prayed together and then I got focused!
My 300 yard swim felt pretty good. I felt as if I was holding back a little too much. I swam 7 seconds slower than my time last year, but I did better than my goal time so I was okay with it. The biking went pretty well and I'm happy to say I beat my bike time from last year! I only had one little issue in the beginning when I was going up the biggest hill of the course. My gears started messing up as I neared the top and I ended up having to walk my bike just briefly. My gears seemed to be cooperative the rest of the bike course. I was so thankful! Beka did an awesome job with the 5K run! Together we managed to place 6th out of a total of eleven teams and 2nd place among the female teams.
A year has gone by since I was in the environment of a competitive race. Being there quickly reminded me why I keep going back for more. I love the comradery, the energy, the determination, the endurance, and the encouragement that takes place and is experienced. When you are passed by another participant during the race, these phrases are commonly heard - "Great job, keep going!" "Way to go!" "You're doing awesome!" "You got this!" I love hearing others shout these words to me and I love saying them to those I pass by. I also love seeing folks go through the finish line. Since I'm not running anymore, I miss out on the joy of going through the finish line myself. But, my teammate gets to go through it and I get to be there at the last few yards cheering her on for a strong finish. I am always reminded that some day I will cross a heavenly finish line and Jesus will be there cheering me on for a strong finish. And until then, I must keep training my spiritual muscles. I can never quit implementing the spiritual disciplines in my life. The Word, prayer, fellowship with believers and connection to a local church, fasting, and witnessing must always be maintained in my life. Not for the sake of judicial standing before a holy God for Christ's work alone and my faith in Him has established that, but because these are the things that help my faith and knowledge of God grow and become stronger.
The triathlon is now behind me and I am relieved. The nerves that existed just yesterday and this morning before the event have disappeard. I am feeling tired and have a post tri headache. I'm resting and spending a day with my family. It has been a good day and I thank Jesus for the health and endurance He has given me to race for His glory!
