beWARM

 Memories of our most humiliating moments can surface at the oddest times.

While watching gifted athletes win medals at the Winter Olympics, I find my heart wondering what it must feel like to be the final competitor crossing the finish line.

Sure, it is a supreme honor to participate in the Games…but, really, if given the choice, one would rather not bring up the rear.

I was moved by the Gold Medalist from Switzerland who waited 28 minutes for the last cross-country skier to cross the finish line.

Competing with broken ribs, the skier from Peru was welcomed with an embrace.

What a beautiful and generous gesture.

Live in the Light of My Presence by fixing your eyes on Me. Then you will be able to run with endurance the race that is set before you, without stumbling or falling.

When I read Sarah Young’s words in my daily devotional, a long-buried image flashed before me.

It was during a 5k race for our daughters’ school, decades ago, back in Ohio.

Besides not being particularly fond of competing in athletic events, I am a slug of a runner – so the odds were not in my favor.

As the race progressed, I got further and further behind. Until finally, only the sound of the sag wagon 20 feet behind me was my company on the road.

It was an awful feeling.

As I approached the dreaded moment when I would join the long-finished runners, my friend Norm suddenly appeared at my side.

 Come on, I’ll run this last stretch with you.

Revisiting that point in time still causes my eyes to well up. His thoughtful gesture made me realize that he knew just how I felt.

And so does God.

Some acts of kindness remain with us forever, and this is one of them.

So…figuratively speaking, what race are you running?  Have you taken your first few steps, or are your shoes still waiting to be laced up?

Whatever your life’s direction is, here are a few things to remember:

• You are never alone because God is always with you – even if it doesn’t feel like it.
• When the ‘Norms’ of the world appear in your life, savor the surprise – and be grateful.
• Though the road may appear empty, companionship and empathy are just around the corner.

Has someone rescued you from one of your worst moments?

Feel free to share, if you desire…or at least, bless them with your gratitude once again.

And most of all, thank God for being our Champion Rescuer.

He welcomes everyone with the same love and grace.

Even the last to finish.

So don’t sit around on your hands! No more dragging your feet! Clear the path for long-distance runners so no one will trip and fall, so no one will step in a hole and sprain an ankle. Help each other out. And run for it! ~Hebrews 12:12-13 (The Message)