Fall break has come and gone, which means Halloween is knocking at the proverbial door. This weekend, my family took the time to pick out and carve pumpkins. As we were cleaning out the gooey insides, my daughter Grace said, "Daddy, this is so gross." I immediately thought about God, and wondered if He says the same thing when He goes through the cleansing process with me? That got me to thinking deeper about our relationship with Him, and how closely a few minutes with this orange squash resembled our relationship with Christ.
So, we used the whole process as a teaching moment. I invite you to try it with your kids this week if you are pumpkin carvers...
We didn't choose God, he chose us. Just like the pumpkins didn't choose us. God told Jeremiah, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart...."
We scoop out the seeds and pulp. In the same way, once we decide to follow Jesus, he cleans out the nasty stuff from inside us. The Psalm says, "as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us." Micah says God, "hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea." I just put the pulp on some newspaper, but still.
Then, we put the new face on the pumpkin. Just like we become new in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
Finally, we insert a candle and light it, so everyone can see our great new Jack O'lanterns. After all, we want everyone to see what's happened to them, right? In the same way, we are called to shine our light so people see the difference in our lives. "No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light." -Luke 8:16
So, we get quality time with the family, fall decorations, and a memorable bible lesson all for around $10. Pretty good investment, I'd say.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
God in the whisper
If you're at all like me, (and for your sake, I hope you're not) you may doubt God from time to time. Maybe you're in a situation you don't like or don't understand, or maybe you're searching for direction in some part of your life, or maybe you just want to know if He's listening to your prayers. My tendency is often to pray for a sign. Lord, just show me who you are... show me that you are God.
But, as I read scripture, I really need to stop praying this. Have you done this lately? Look how God often proves Himself. It's almost always with death and destruction. There are very few fleece moments in the bible. It's more like this:
And they will know that I am the LORD, when their people lie slain among their idols around their altars...
You will fall by the sword, and I will execute judgment on you at the borders of Israel. Then you will know that I am the LORD.
The inhabited towns will be laid waste and the land will be desolate. Then you will know that I am the LORD.
If it's been awhile since you read the bible, think about it. Do you remember a passage that says, "I will deliver the job into your hands, then you will know that I am the LORD?" Or how about, "I will heal your ailing spouse/child/brother then you will know that I am the LORD?" Or even, "I will present to you the lottery numbers BEFORE they are drawn, then you will know that I am the LORD?" No. I mean there is the staff turning into a snake thing. And the time that Elijah called on God to set the altar ablaze. But generally, in scripture, the LORD makes Himself known in ways that we wouldn't really want to see Him. But, it also means that He has the power to make Himself known.
So, what does this mean for us? It means we need to have faith. Faith that His plan is better than ours. Faith that he's the same God He has been- yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Faith that He's still on His throne.
When nothing wheron to lean remains,
When strongholds crumble to dust;
When nothing is sure but that God still reigns,
That is just the time to trust.
'Tis better to walk by faith than sight,
In this path of yours and mine;
And the pitch-black night, when there's no outer light
Is the time for faith to shine. - Joseph Parker
God has told us who He is, and He's probably shown you in your life time and again. Maybe you can't hear him now because life SCREAMS at you. Your circumstances YELL at you to ignore that still small voice inside your head. But, scripture tells us that God is in the whisper. Be still and listen... and know that He is God.
But, as I read scripture, I really need to stop praying this. Have you done this lately? Look how God often proves Himself. It's almost always with death and destruction. There are very few fleece moments in the bible. It's more like this:
And they will know that I am the LORD, when their people lie slain among their idols around their altars...
You will fall by the sword, and I will execute judgment on you at the borders of Israel. Then you will know that I am the LORD.
The inhabited towns will be laid waste and the land will be desolate. Then you will know that I am the LORD.
If it's been awhile since you read the bible, think about it. Do you remember a passage that says, "I will deliver the job into your hands, then you will know that I am the LORD?" Or how about, "I will heal your ailing spouse/child/brother then you will know that I am the LORD?" Or even, "I will present to you the lottery numbers BEFORE they are drawn, then you will know that I am the LORD?" No. I mean there is the staff turning into a snake thing. And the time that Elijah called on God to set the altar ablaze. But generally, in scripture, the LORD makes Himself known in ways that we wouldn't really want to see Him. But, it also means that He has the power to make Himself known.
So, what does this mean for us? It means we need to have faith. Faith that His plan is better than ours. Faith that he's the same God He has been- yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Faith that He's still on His throne.
When nothing wheron to lean remains,
When strongholds crumble to dust;
When nothing is sure but that God still reigns,
That is just the time to trust.
'Tis better to walk by faith than sight,
In this path of yours and mine;
And the pitch-black night, when there's no outer light
Is the time for faith to shine. - Joseph Parker
God has told us who He is, and He's probably shown you in your life time and again. Maybe you can't hear him now because life SCREAMS at you. Your circumstances YELL at you to ignore that still small voice inside your head. But, scripture tells us that God is in the whisper. Be still and listen... and know that He is God.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Lord, make me more stubborn
"But it won't work that way with the family of Israel. They won't listen to you because they won't listen to me. They are, as I said, a hard case, hardened in their sin. But I'll make you as hard in your way as they are in theirs. I'll make your face as hard as rock, harder than granite. Don't let them intimidate you. Don't be afraid of them, even though they're a bunch of rebels." -Ezekiel 3:7-9 (The Message, emphasis added)
At first, this seems like a pretty strange passage to me. I mean, who wants their face to be as hard as a rock? C'mon God, make my abs as hard as a rock, maybe, but my face?
But, what a cool thing God did for Ezekiel. He was sending him to speak to the Israelites and warn them about their sin. But in His sovereignty, God knew they would be stubborn about it, so he promised to make Ezekiel more stubborn.
I have to tell you that so many times, when I find myself in a similar situation, I pray about the others. I pray for the ones I'm speaking to and say, "Lord, soften their hearts. Help them see it my way."
But, maybe God wants to teach me something sometimes by making people stubborn. Maybe people who don't just follow me blindly are meant to test my perserverance. Maybe I should pray for God to change me more than I pray for Him to change other people. Like Ezekiel, I need to ask him to make my face harder than granite. After all, as James wrote, "You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way." -James 1:2-3 (the Message)
I want to be mature and complete. I want not to be deficient in any way. So, Lord, make me more stubborn.
And, about those abs...
At first, this seems like a pretty strange passage to me. I mean, who wants their face to be as hard as a rock? C'mon God, make my abs as hard as a rock, maybe, but my face?
But, what a cool thing God did for Ezekiel. He was sending him to speak to the Israelites and warn them about their sin. But in His sovereignty, God knew they would be stubborn about it, so he promised to make Ezekiel more stubborn.
I have to tell you that so many times, when I find myself in a similar situation, I pray about the others. I pray for the ones I'm speaking to and say, "Lord, soften their hearts. Help them see it my way."
But, maybe God wants to teach me something sometimes by making people stubborn. Maybe people who don't just follow me blindly are meant to test my perserverance. Maybe I should pray for God to change me more than I pray for Him to change other people. Like Ezekiel, I need to ask him to make my face harder than granite. After all, as James wrote, "You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way." -James 1:2-3 (the Message)
I want to be mature and complete. I want not to be deficient in any way. So, Lord, make me more stubborn.
And, about those abs...
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
On making great people
Dads, let's talk. I think if we were to sit down face-to-face over a cup of coffee (or a large Diet Coke for me), we'd agree that one of the most important things we'll do in this life is raise great kids. Can we just agree on that now? Good.
So, why don't we always act like it's a priority? If we're to be honest with one another, I'd bet we both spend a lot more time thinking about our career development, financial future, or even our vacations than we do about how to build into our children. Look at it this way: we driven, ambitious career types are always looking for a way to add more value at work, right? We wouldn't think of just occupying a seat and getting by with the minimum required to get the job done. We strive to get better, we invest in our skills and knowledge, we bring ideas to people. We aren't static, we are in motion in our careers.
Why, then, when it's our turn to watch the kids, do we look for the easy way out? Why do we wonder which DVD we should put in to occupy the time while we rest or read or do what we need to do? Why don't we invest in our parenting skills, spend quality time playing with our kids, reading to them, coloring with them, doing things that build them up?
In his book Outliers, Malcom Gladwell suggests that great performers are made largely by great opportunities. In other words, if you want to be a great piano player, you need lots and lots of hours at the piano. If you want to be a great runner, you need a chance to put in miles and miles. Likewise, if you want to raise great kids (thereby making them into great people), you need to invest the time in them, not just spend time with them, but really spend time building them.
Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train a child in the way he should go and he will not stray from it." That's what most of us want as parents, right? A child who is raised right and turns into a great person - one who doesn't stray. So, let's take every opportunity God has given us to invest a part of ourselves in our kids. We don't have very much time- our opportunity is limited.
So, why don't we always act like it's a priority? If we're to be honest with one another, I'd bet we both spend a lot more time thinking about our career development, financial future, or even our vacations than we do about how to build into our children. Look at it this way: we driven, ambitious career types are always looking for a way to add more value at work, right? We wouldn't think of just occupying a seat and getting by with the minimum required to get the job done. We strive to get better, we invest in our skills and knowledge, we bring ideas to people. We aren't static, we are in motion in our careers.
Why, then, when it's our turn to watch the kids, do we look for the easy way out? Why do we wonder which DVD we should put in to occupy the time while we rest or read or do what we need to do? Why don't we invest in our parenting skills, spend quality time playing with our kids, reading to them, coloring with them, doing things that build them up?
In his book Outliers, Malcom Gladwell suggests that great performers are made largely by great opportunities. In other words, if you want to be a great piano player, you need lots and lots of hours at the piano. If you want to be a great runner, you need a chance to put in miles and miles. Likewise, if you want to raise great kids (thereby making them into great people), you need to invest the time in them, not just spend time with them, but really spend time building them.
Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train a child in the way he should go and he will not stray from it." That's what most of us want as parents, right? A child who is raised right and turns into a great person - one who doesn't stray. So, let's take every opportunity God has given us to invest a part of ourselves in our kids. We don't have very much time- our opportunity is limited.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Nehemiah Vision Ministries
In case you missed this last weekend, here is the video about some of what God is doing in Haiti.
Nehemiah Vision Ministries from Northernlight Filmworks on Vimeo.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
MOVE Conference Roundup
So, we returned yesterday from the MOVE Conference at Hope College in Holland, Michigan. I think that most of the students were somewhat underwhelmed or maybe even a little disappointed at the conference... that is, at least, until the last day.
The entire conference focused on the book of Exodus, and the story of the people of God. The worship, by the Aaron Pelsue Band, was really good, but it took the students awhile to learn the new songs. Once they caught on, though, it was phenomenal!
On the first night, we talked about God appearing to Moses in the burning bush, and how he calls us all in different ways. The second day, we discussed what it means to be a slave to sin, and how we can be free. Day 3, we talked about the crossing of the Red Sea, and how we all come to a point in our lives where we have a crossing to make. Day four, we talked about worship, and what it means to worship God and to worship idols. On this day, each of the participants build their idol out of Play-Doh and we smashed them underfoot. Then came day five, the day that rocked our world. On this day, we talked about living with God and in God, and what that means. Each person at the conference got an envelope that they had to commit to do what it said before they opened it (they didn't have to open it, but if they wanted to, they were committed). Well, every student in our group committed to do it, and each one got a challenge that, by God's grace, was appropriately hard for them. One student now has to sell 50 items of clothing and give the money to a family who needs it. One has to skip one lunch per week and use the money to provide a meal for someone who can't afford it. One student has to memorize the book of Ephesians. My challenge is to not buy gas for a month and give the money to an environmental cause. I started today.
Then, by some ridiculously funny manipulation by God, we got the biggest challenge. If you want to know about that, or to know the story, you need to look here.
I'm really excited to see what God is going to do in our students and in our community in the next year. Stay tuned.
The entire conference focused on the book of Exodus, and the story of the people of God. The worship, by the Aaron Pelsue Band, was really good, but it took the students awhile to learn the new songs. Once they caught on, though, it was phenomenal!
On the first night, we talked about God appearing to Moses in the burning bush, and how he calls us all in different ways. The second day, we discussed what it means to be a slave to sin, and how we can be free. Day 3, we talked about the crossing of the Red Sea, and how we all come to a point in our lives where we have a crossing to make. Day four, we talked about worship, and what it means to worship God and to worship idols. On this day, each of the participants build their idol out of Play-Doh and we smashed them underfoot. Then came day five, the day that rocked our world. On this day, we talked about living with God and in God, and what that means. Each person at the conference got an envelope that they had to commit to do what it said before they opened it (they didn't have to open it, but if they wanted to, they were committed). Well, every student in our group committed to do it, and each one got a challenge that, by God's grace, was appropriately hard for them. One student now has to sell 50 items of clothing and give the money to a family who needs it. One has to skip one lunch per week and use the money to provide a meal for someone who can't afford it. One student has to memorize the book of Ephesians. My challenge is to not buy gas for a month and give the money to an environmental cause. I started today.
Then, by some ridiculously funny manipulation by God, we got the biggest challenge. If you want to know about that, or to know the story, you need to look here.
I'm really excited to see what God is going to do in our students and in our community in the next year. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
MOVE updates
If you're looking for MOVE conference updates, follow me on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/stevewallen or on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/steve.wallen Can't really blog from here.
Friday, June 26, 2009
3 days until camp
Just 3 more days until we leave with the high school students from Genesis Church to go to Move camp in Holland, Michigan. Once again this year, I will be blogging each day from the camp (assuming I can grab an internet connection somewhere) so parents and interested parties can keep up with our good times, crazy fun, and what we learn.
Stay tuned!
Steve
Stay tuned!
Steve
Saturday, June 20, 2009
The dangers of an authentic life
Well, I've learned a lesson this week. Maybe a few.
A few years after I first started following Christ as an adult, I got introduced to a church that values authenicity. Actually, to say it like that kind of undersells the concept. This church believed and lived the ideal that you can be who you are, in any circumstance, you are who God made you and how He made you, and to pretend to be anything else is to deny your maker. I bought in hook, line and sinker. In fact, around that same time was when I first started having a presence online. Because of my belief in the importance of authenticity and transparency, I decided I would live my online life just like my real life... no alias, no persona. I have never had an e-mail like BigHotDaddy@... or IronMan2632@... My e-mails, this Blog, my Facebook page all have my real name. No hiding. I see this as a kind of accountability for me. By doing this, I can live a life of integrity everywhere, even among those who don't know me.
Well, I started to doubt my decision this week when I found out that I was being cyber-stalked. Someone (I think I know who, though I won't say) had been going through my FB pages, looking for anything that could be inflammatory or insulting when taken out of context. It was sad to me, too, because I like working with her. I also have a very important job, caring for people I love at a company I love, and there have been some really tough times there this year. But, this person implied (and probably really believed) that what I had written (and when) made me unfit for my job. Fortunately, the people who saw it know me well enough not to doubt my intentions, but it made me recoil. In fact, my immediate response was to make everything private. I protected this Blog, my FB page, I unfriended anyone at work (sorry to my friends there). I acted just how I would have if I'd been physically attacked.
Over the last two days, though, my response is changing. I need to not let the fact that someone doesn't want to see me succeed not change who I am. Those of you who know me well, I think, know that I am not insensitive, callous, or mean. I am, however, sarchastic, and I can be prideful. Very prideful, and I need to let Christ work in that area of my life. But, I will not go subterranean.
Many of you have told me that something on these blog pages has touched you. Several of you have enjoyed reading my race reports from time to time. And, I think it's cool that some people may be attracted to a Jesus who is madly in love with them just because some offbeat, occasionally funny runner writes about Him sometimes.
So, what have I learned? Well, being authentic is dangerous. Just as it allows you not to surprise anyone when they get to know you, it allows people who don't know you to see into all your junk. I still think that's a better way to live, and it's how God commands us (Ephesians 4:25 says, "So put away all falsehood and tell your neighbor the truth, because we belong to each other"). But, I have realized that what you write online can be seen and misused by anyone. I have also seen that people's perception can vary far from reality, and the more visible you are, the higher standard to which you are held. As a friend told me this week, "just realize your audience is bigger than you perceive." And I do.
I've also learned that not everyone will like you. No matter how much you want that.
So, if you've been offended by something I've written here or elsewhere, I can assure you I didn't mean that. Search anything I've written- you'll not find a hint of profanity, sexism, racism or insult (except to my friends, all meant in love). Unless, that is, you're offended because of something I've written about Jesus. Then, if your offended, maybe it's not my fault.
Leadership author and speaker John Maxwell says his definition of success is when the people that know him best are the ones that like him most. I like that definition. I don't think it's always like that for politicians or movie actors, but I hope it is for me.
Thanks for reading, and peace.
Steve
A few years after I first started following Christ as an adult, I got introduced to a church that values authenicity. Actually, to say it like that kind of undersells the concept. This church believed and lived the ideal that you can be who you are, in any circumstance, you are who God made you and how He made you, and to pretend to be anything else is to deny your maker. I bought in hook, line and sinker. In fact, around that same time was when I first started having a presence online. Because of my belief in the importance of authenticity and transparency, I decided I would live my online life just like my real life... no alias, no persona. I have never had an e-mail like BigHotDaddy@... or IronMan2632@... My e-mails, this Blog, my Facebook page all have my real name. No hiding. I see this as a kind of accountability for me. By doing this, I can live a life of integrity everywhere, even among those who don't know me.
Well, I started to doubt my decision this week when I found out that I was being cyber-stalked. Someone (I think I know who, though I won't say) had been going through my FB pages, looking for anything that could be inflammatory or insulting when taken out of context. It was sad to me, too, because I like working with her. I also have a very important job, caring for people I love at a company I love, and there have been some really tough times there this year. But, this person implied (and probably really believed) that what I had written (and when) made me unfit for my job. Fortunately, the people who saw it know me well enough not to doubt my intentions, but it made me recoil. In fact, my immediate response was to make everything private. I protected this Blog, my FB page, I unfriended anyone at work (sorry to my friends there). I acted just how I would have if I'd been physically attacked.
Over the last two days, though, my response is changing. I need to not let the fact that someone doesn't want to see me succeed not change who I am. Those of you who know me well, I think, know that I am not insensitive, callous, or mean. I am, however, sarchastic, and I can be prideful. Very prideful, and I need to let Christ work in that area of my life. But, I will not go subterranean.
Many of you have told me that something on these blog pages has touched you. Several of you have enjoyed reading my race reports from time to time. And, I think it's cool that some people may be attracted to a Jesus who is madly in love with them just because some offbeat, occasionally funny runner writes about Him sometimes.
So, what have I learned? Well, being authentic is dangerous. Just as it allows you not to surprise anyone when they get to know you, it allows people who don't know you to see into all your junk. I still think that's a better way to live, and it's how God commands us (Ephesians 4:25 says, "So put away all falsehood and tell your neighbor the truth, because we belong to each other"). But, I have realized that what you write online can be seen and misused by anyone. I have also seen that people's perception can vary far from reality, and the more visible you are, the higher standard to which you are held. As a friend told me this week, "just realize your audience is bigger than you perceive." And I do.
I've also learned that not everyone will like you. No matter how much you want that.
So, if you've been offended by something I've written here or elsewhere, I can assure you I didn't mean that. Search anything I've written- you'll not find a hint of profanity, sexism, racism or insult (except to my friends, all meant in love). Unless, that is, you're offended because of something I've written about Jesus. Then, if your offended, maybe it's not my fault.
Leadership author and speaker John Maxwell says his definition of success is when the people that know him best are the ones that like him most. I like that definition. I don't think it's always like that for politicians or movie actors, but I hope it is for me.
Thanks for reading, and peace.
Steve
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Race report- Madison Marathon
Okay, this one's a week or so late because we were on vacation, then I was working on a message for church last week. But, I wanted to write down my thoughts about the Madison Marathon on May 24. The short version: I ran a personal best 3:57:51 (in only my second marathon) and was able to walk the next day. Now here's the slightly longer version.
When I started considering a marathon late last fall, I was looking for one that was (1) driving distance (2) in a place I hadn't been, and (3) after the Indy Mini with enough time to recover, but not enough that I would lose my fitness. Madison fit right in- 5 hour drive, and 3 weeks after the Mini. Truth be known, I would have liked another week to allow for one more long run, but even more truth be known... I don't know if I could have run a 20 miler the week after the Mini anyway.
We drove up Saturday morning and arrived at the hotel right around 4:00, which was check-in time. We parked at the hotel and walked to the expo, and I was pleased to find out that our hotel was indeed walking distance to both the start and finish lines. This would work out well logistically, as I could walk to the start and my family could walk to the finish and watch me limp in. The expo was nice, but fairly small compared to the Indy Mini, and it was then I realized how small this race actually was. In a good way.
Sunday morning, I woke up at 5:20, 10 minutes before my alarm went off. I slept well from about 9:30, so that was nice. I ate two granola bars, drank a bottle of water, and went for a walk/jog through the parking lot and the finish line. I determined the finish was about a half mile from the hotel entrance, which would work fine.
I arrived at the start area about 7:00, 30 minutes before the start. The weather was perfect for running- 52 degrees, cloudy, and no wind. I looked for and found the 3:40 pace group. My plan was to run with them as long as I could, then hang on to make it under 4 hours. By this time, though, I had raised my expectations and thought maybe 3:40 was possible. Well, I introduced myself to a couple of the pacers, got a good look at them to know who I was following, then the gun went off. About 1,500 of us left the line, and ran around the Alliant energy center parking lot, off onto the road and we were at a mile before I knew it, just a tad slow. Okay, though. By close to mile two, I couldn't belive the crowd wasn't breaking up more... it felt like I was running with 15,000 people, not 1,500. I was feeling clausterphobic and had to get out. I ran up about 15 feet in front of the 3:40 pace group and all of a sudden, I felt I was running alone. This was more like it. I was very comfortable, enjoying views of Lake Monona, then the capital, then the University of Wisconsin. Five miles went by in 41:30 (8:18 miles), right on time. As we ran, I took note of a couple things to come back for with my family... a frozen custard stand (4.5 miles), a beautiful house being built on Lake Wingra (8.5 miles) and the zoo (9.5 miles).
When we exited the UW Arboretum and turned by the zoo, I couldn't believe the crowd there to cheer us on. There must have been close to a thousand people lining the path, yelling and screaming, ringing cowbells, and shouting our names, which were printed in large type on our bibs. It was very energizing.
I ran through the half in 1:48, which would have been a PR for me a month ago, but was just about on plan for the marathon. One more of those, and I'd run a 3:36. That would be awesome! But, it was not to be. At about mile 15.5, I walked the aid station. I had carried a pack of Clif Shot Bloks with me, and a honey stinger gel. I had planned to take a gel or some energy food every 6 miles, and I had hoped to pick one up at the 4 mile station, but I passed right by it. So, I had to be careful with my calorie intake, and now I knew I was off my plan, but I couldn't remember when I was supposed to eat again. So, I walked, took some Gatorade, and poured some water over my head (it was getting warmer now). I started running again with no problem until mile 17. As we ran around the Maple Bluff country club, we hit the longest/steepest hill on the course. It drove me to a walk, and I never recovered. Between 17.5 and 22, I was reduced to a pattern of walk 1 minute, run 2 minutes, or some variation thereof. The bottom line is there was about a five-mile stretch where I ran only about 2/3 of it.
By mile 22.5 or so, we were running along the shore of Lake Mendota, sharing a bike path with people out enjoying the beautiful day. The mix of more people, nice lake views, and proximity to the finish line drove me to run more. Now, I would walk one minute and run four. I just kept repeating to myself, "This is what all your training was for. This is why you spent so much time away from your family. This is something you can do!"
At mile 25, I started running and didn't stop again. Just before 26, we re-entered the Alliant energy center, and as I ran toward the finish, I started looking for my family in the crowd. As I passed 26, I saw them and realized we'd never arrived on where we would meet. I waved, though, and my girls got to see me finish, which was great. As I approached the finish line, I finally saw the clock and it started with a four. I was a little bummed, but not surprised considering how much I'd walked. Then I realized- that was the 1/2 marathon clock- they started 30 minutes before us. On the other side of the finish line was the marathon clock, and it was at 3:56. I was going to do it! I crossed the line at 3:58:17. I wasn't wearing my watch, but I knew it had been about 30 seconds before I'd crossed the start line, so I was safely under four hours. I grabbed a chocolate milk, hobbled back to find my family, and started to think. My first response surprised me. Instead of the usual, "I'm not doing that again," I thought, "I can probably take 20 minutes off that time if I work at it."
So, I'm really excited to see what's next for my running. The last two weeks I've run, bicycled, and lifted weights without a plan. Now, I'm in training for a 4.5 miler on the 4th, but I'm considering what to do in the fall... another marathon? Fast half-marathon? Ultra? Thoughts, anyone?
When I started considering a marathon late last fall, I was looking for one that was (1) driving distance (2) in a place I hadn't been, and (3) after the Indy Mini with enough time to recover, but not enough that I would lose my fitness. Madison fit right in- 5 hour drive, and 3 weeks after the Mini. Truth be known, I would have liked another week to allow for one more long run, but even more truth be known... I don't know if I could have run a 20 miler the week after the Mini anyway.
We drove up Saturday morning and arrived at the hotel right around 4:00, which was check-in time. We parked at the hotel and walked to the expo, and I was pleased to find out that our hotel was indeed walking distance to both the start and finish lines. This would work out well logistically, as I could walk to the start and my family could walk to the finish and watch me limp in. The expo was nice, but fairly small compared to the Indy Mini, and it was then I realized how small this race actually was. In a good way.
Sunday morning, I woke up at 5:20, 10 minutes before my alarm went off. I slept well from about 9:30, so that was nice. I ate two granola bars, drank a bottle of water, and went for a walk/jog through the parking lot and the finish line. I determined the finish was about a half mile from the hotel entrance, which would work fine.
I arrived at the start area about 7:00, 30 minutes before the start. The weather was perfect for running- 52 degrees, cloudy, and no wind. I looked for and found the 3:40 pace group. My plan was to run with them as long as I could, then hang on to make it under 4 hours. By this time, though, I had raised my expectations and thought maybe 3:40 was possible. Well, I introduced myself to a couple of the pacers, got a good look at them to know who I was following, then the gun went off. About 1,500 of us left the line, and ran around the Alliant energy center parking lot, off onto the road and we were at a mile before I knew it, just a tad slow. Okay, though. By close to mile two, I couldn't belive the crowd wasn't breaking up more... it felt like I was running with 15,000 people, not 1,500. I was feeling clausterphobic and had to get out. I ran up about 15 feet in front of the 3:40 pace group and all of a sudden, I felt I was running alone. This was more like it. I was very comfortable, enjoying views of Lake Monona, then the capital, then the University of Wisconsin. Five miles went by in 41:30 (8:18 miles), right on time. As we ran, I took note of a couple things to come back for with my family... a frozen custard stand (4.5 miles), a beautiful house being built on Lake Wingra (8.5 miles) and the zoo (9.5 miles).
When we exited the UW Arboretum and turned by the zoo, I couldn't believe the crowd there to cheer us on. There must have been close to a thousand people lining the path, yelling and screaming, ringing cowbells, and shouting our names, which were printed in large type on our bibs. It was very energizing.
I ran through the half in 1:48, which would have been a PR for me a month ago, but was just about on plan for the marathon. One more of those, and I'd run a 3:36. That would be awesome! But, it was not to be. At about mile 15.5, I walked the aid station. I had carried a pack of Clif Shot Bloks with me, and a honey stinger gel. I had planned to take a gel or some energy food every 6 miles, and I had hoped to pick one up at the 4 mile station, but I passed right by it. So, I had to be careful with my calorie intake, and now I knew I was off my plan, but I couldn't remember when I was supposed to eat again. So, I walked, took some Gatorade, and poured some water over my head (it was getting warmer now). I started running again with no problem until mile 17. As we ran around the Maple Bluff country club, we hit the longest/steepest hill on the course. It drove me to a walk, and I never recovered. Between 17.5 and 22, I was reduced to a pattern of walk 1 minute, run 2 minutes, or some variation thereof. The bottom line is there was about a five-mile stretch where I ran only about 2/3 of it.
By mile 22.5 or so, we were running along the shore of Lake Mendota, sharing a bike path with people out enjoying the beautiful day. The mix of more people, nice lake views, and proximity to the finish line drove me to run more. Now, I would walk one minute and run four. I just kept repeating to myself, "This is what all your training was for. This is why you spent so much time away from your family. This is something you can do!"
At mile 25, I started running and didn't stop again. Just before 26, we re-entered the Alliant energy center, and as I ran toward the finish, I started looking for my family in the crowd. As I passed 26, I saw them and realized we'd never arrived on where we would meet. I waved, though, and my girls got to see me finish, which was great. As I approached the finish line, I finally saw the clock and it started with a four. I was a little bummed, but not surprised considering how much I'd walked. Then I realized- that was the 1/2 marathon clock- they started 30 minutes before us. On the other side of the finish line was the marathon clock, and it was at 3:56. I was going to do it! I crossed the line at 3:58:17. I wasn't wearing my watch, but I knew it had been about 30 seconds before I'd crossed the start line, so I was safely under four hours. I grabbed a chocolate milk, hobbled back to find my family, and started to think. My first response surprised me. Instead of the usual, "I'm not doing that again," I thought, "I can probably take 20 minutes off that time if I work at it."
So, I'm really excited to see what's next for my running. The last two weeks I've run, bicycled, and lifted weights without a plan. Now, I'm in training for a 4.5 miler on the 4th, but I'm considering what to do in the fall... another marathon? Fast half-marathon? Ultra? Thoughts, anyone?
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Lesson about success
I, Nebuchadnezzar, was at home in my palace, contented and prosperous. -Daniel 4:4
Okay, stop right here. This really makes me mad. King Nebucadnezzar, the evil one, sitting in his palace contented and prosperous. Not bothered by the outside world. Not enough compassion to be concerned about the abuses happening in his kingdom. He just sits in his palace, rich and happy, after all the destruction he's caused. And this is the first lesson about success, and it may go against everything you think you know about God.
God sometimes grants success to people who don’t follow Him.
This story in particular is about Nebucadnezzar, and we know he wasn’t a nice man. I mean the book of Daniel tells a little about him, but to really know the King’s whole story, you have to go to 2 Chronicles.
He (God) brought up against them the king of the Babylonians, who killed their young men with the sword in the sanctuary, and spared neither young man nor young woman, old man or aged. God handed all of them over to Nebuchadnezzar. He carried to Babylon all the articles from the temple of God, both large and small, and the treasures of the LORD's temple and the treasures of the king and his officials. They set fire to God's temple and broke down the wall of Jerusalem; they burned all the palaces and destroyed everything of value there.
He carried into exile to Babylon the remnant, who escaped from the sword, and they became servants to him and his sons until the kingdom of Persia came to power. -2 Chronicles 36:17-21
So, here’s a guy that raided the city of Jerusalem. He killed everyone he could, enslaved those he couldn’t. He took all their stuff and carried it off to Babylon- their gold, their livestock, everything of value, and burned the rest of the city. This man, this ancient-day Hitler, is sitting in his place, content and prosperous. And look at verse 17 again: He, God, delivered this into the hands of Nebucadnezzar. See, I don’t understand why, but God sometimes gives success to people who don’t follow him, so what does that mean for you and me. Well, consider this. Maybe just because you’re having success as the world sees it doesn’t mean you’re following God’s will. This is huge!
I mean, I hear this a lot- God is really blessing this area of my life. I’m so glad I took that new job because, even though I’m away from my family a lot more, I’m making a lot more money, so God is really blessing that. Or, my husband and I are separated, but I’ve met this new guy, and he’s a believer, and I just know God wants me to end my marriage and go with him because this relationship is so much better than the one I have with my husband, so I know it’s God’s will. Or, yeah, I know I violate my principals sometimes when I hang out with those friends, but they really like me when I’m with them, and God wants me to be happy, right?
Well, I can’t tell you God’s will for your life, but let me tell you what I know about God’s will. God will never ever will for your life something that violates His word that he’s given us. If your understanding of God's will is different in anyway from what the bible says, who's more likely to be wrong? So, if you think God’s will is to be away from your family more just for more money, or to leave your husband or leave your wife for someone who understands you better, or to sin so you can be accepted by some so-called friends, I tell you that you are buying the world’s definition of success instead of God's.
Okay, stop right here. This really makes me mad. King Nebucadnezzar, the evil one, sitting in his palace contented and prosperous. Not bothered by the outside world. Not enough compassion to be concerned about the abuses happening in his kingdom. He just sits in his palace, rich and happy, after all the destruction he's caused. And this is the first lesson about success, and it may go against everything you think you know about God.
God sometimes grants success to people who don’t follow Him.
This story in particular is about Nebucadnezzar, and we know he wasn’t a nice man. I mean the book of Daniel tells a little about him, but to really know the King’s whole story, you have to go to 2 Chronicles.
He (God) brought up against them the king of the Babylonians, who killed their young men with the sword in the sanctuary, and spared neither young man nor young woman, old man or aged. God handed all of them over to Nebuchadnezzar. He carried to Babylon all the articles from the temple of God, both large and small, and the treasures of the LORD's temple and the treasures of the king and his officials. They set fire to God's temple and broke down the wall of Jerusalem; they burned all the palaces and destroyed everything of value there.
He carried into exile to Babylon the remnant, who escaped from the sword, and they became servants to him and his sons until the kingdom of Persia came to power. -2 Chronicles 36:17-21
So, here’s a guy that raided the city of Jerusalem. He killed everyone he could, enslaved those he couldn’t. He took all their stuff and carried it off to Babylon- their gold, their livestock, everything of value, and burned the rest of the city. This man, this ancient-day Hitler, is sitting in his place, content and prosperous. And look at verse 17 again: He, God, delivered this into the hands of Nebucadnezzar. See, I don’t understand why, but God sometimes gives success to people who don’t follow him, so what does that mean for you and me. Well, consider this. Maybe just because you’re having success as the world sees it doesn’t mean you’re following God’s will. This is huge!
I mean, I hear this a lot- God is really blessing this area of my life. I’m so glad I took that new job because, even though I’m away from my family a lot more, I’m making a lot more money, so God is really blessing that. Or, my husband and I are separated, but I’ve met this new guy, and he’s a believer, and I just know God wants me to end my marriage and go with him because this relationship is so much better than the one I have with my husband, so I know it’s God’s will. Or, yeah, I know I violate my principals sometimes when I hang out with those friends, but they really like me when I’m with them, and God wants me to be happy, right?
Well, I can’t tell you God’s will for your life, but let me tell you what I know about God’s will. God will never ever will for your life something that violates His word that he’s given us. If your understanding of God's will is different in anyway from what the bible says, who's more likely to be wrong? So, if you think God’s will is to be away from your family more just for more money, or to leave your husband or leave your wife for someone who understands you better, or to sin so you can be accepted by some so-called friends, I tell you that you are buying the world’s definition of success instead of God's.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Marathon FAQ's for my non-running friends
Since I've told people I've been training for the Madison Marathon, the responses have been varied. My running friends are mostly understanding, excited, inquisitive, and some even a little jealous. But, the most confused and amused looks and questions come from my non-running friends. So, to save the trouble of answering them many times in the next two weeks, I present here my Marathon FAQ's.
1. How long is THIS marathon? By definition, a marathon is a race that is 26.2 miles. To be more precise, it is 26 miles, 385 yards. The marathon was first featured in the Olympic games in Athens in 1896 as 40km (24.85 miles) and the now standard distance was used first in 1908, when in order for the Royal Family to see the marathon at the London Olympics, a partial lap around the stadium was added to the planned 26 mile race. Or something like that. Anyway, a marathon has been officially 26.2 miles since 1921, when the distance was standardized.
2. Why would anyone run 26 miles? Well, that's different for everyone. The race is named after an alleged journey of Pheidippides, a Greek messenger charged with communicating that his country defeated Persia in the Battle of Marathon. He immediately ran from Marathon to Athens, a distance of about 25 miles, upon which he announced, "we have won," then took a swig of Gatorade, wrapped himself in a space blanket, and promptly died. So, he did it as an act of patriotism. My motives are more selfish. I wanted to (1) have something out on the calendar to motivate me, (2) prove I could do it, and (3) train so that I could run better at other distances. Numbers 1 and 3 have worked so far; this Sunday, I'll run to see if 2 is true.
3. Wow, 26 miles. I don't even like to drive that far! Neither do I.
4. Madison? Won't that be hilly? Hmmm... maybe. But, I plotted the course on my favorite mapping site, and only got about 350 feet of vertical over the whole 26 miles. That's just over twice what the Indy Mini has, and it's twice as long, so it looks relatively flat.
5. What's your goal Wow, good question. My first and only marathon was a disaster. I finished the first half in 2:08 and the second half took 2:48, for a 4:56 total. I would love to run under 4 hours. Based on my recent half-marathon, I should be able to run a 3:35, but I don't know if I've run enough long runs for that. I plan to go out at a 3:40 pace and run as long as I can there. That is about 8:30 per mile for the math-impaired.
6. What comes next? Well, immediately afterward, the family and I will spend the first few days of Summer vacation in Wisconsin- first in Madison, then in The Dells. Next Saturday, I will continue to torture myself with a 15k trail run in Nashville, Indiana. You should come. No, seriously. After that, I'm a little less clear. I've been experiencing foot pain, so I may take a month or two off from running and ride my bike more. I'm open to ideas.
EDIT: Here are some other frequent answers I use. You can figure out the questions: No, I'm not insane. I use band-aids on them. Pretty much anything I want, but it will probably involve gravy. No, I don't- not anymore, anyway- just too much trouble to get rid of the stubble. Yes, like a pig. Go before you leave the hotel. Ice bath.
Thanks for reading. Wish me luck, and I'd sure appreciate your prayers Sunday Morning.
Steve
1. How long is THIS marathon? By definition, a marathon is a race that is 26.2 miles. To be more precise, it is 26 miles, 385 yards. The marathon was first featured in the Olympic games in Athens in 1896 as 40km (24.85 miles) and the now standard distance was used first in 1908, when in order for the Royal Family to see the marathon at the London Olympics, a partial lap around the stadium was added to the planned 26 mile race. Or something like that. Anyway, a marathon has been officially 26.2 miles since 1921, when the distance was standardized.
2. Why would anyone run 26 miles? Well, that's different for everyone. The race is named after an alleged journey of Pheidippides, a Greek messenger charged with communicating that his country defeated Persia in the Battle of Marathon. He immediately ran from Marathon to Athens, a distance of about 25 miles, upon which he announced, "we have won," then took a swig of Gatorade, wrapped himself in a space blanket, and promptly died. So, he did it as an act of patriotism. My motives are more selfish. I wanted to (1) have something out on the calendar to motivate me, (2) prove I could do it, and (3) train so that I could run better at other distances. Numbers 1 and 3 have worked so far; this Sunday, I'll run to see if 2 is true.
3. Wow, 26 miles. I don't even like to drive that far! Neither do I.
4. Madison? Won't that be hilly? Hmmm... maybe. But, I plotted the course on my favorite mapping site, and only got about 350 feet of vertical over the whole 26 miles. That's just over twice what the Indy Mini has, and it's twice as long, so it looks relatively flat.
5. What's your goal Wow, good question. My first and only marathon was a disaster. I finished the first half in 2:08 and the second half took 2:48, for a 4:56 total. I would love to run under 4 hours. Based on my recent half-marathon, I should be able to run a 3:35, but I don't know if I've run enough long runs for that. I plan to go out at a 3:40 pace and run as long as I can there. That is about 8:30 per mile for the math-impaired.
6. What comes next? Well, immediately afterward, the family and I will spend the first few days of Summer vacation in Wisconsin- first in Madison, then in The Dells. Next Saturday, I will continue to torture myself with a 15k trail run in Nashville, Indiana. You should come. No, seriously. After that, I'm a little less clear. I've been experiencing foot pain, so I may take a month or two off from running and ride my bike more. I'm open to ideas.
EDIT: Here are some other frequent answers I use. You can figure out the questions: No, I'm not insane. I use band-aids on them. Pretty much anything I want, but it will probably involve gravy. No, I don't- not anymore, anyway- just too much trouble to get rid of the stubble. Yes, like a pig. Go before you leave the hotel. Ice bath.
Thanks for reading. Wish me luck, and I'd sure appreciate your prayers Sunday Morning.
Steve
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
You, my friend, are important
I was reading in 1 Chronicles last night, and came across the passage that described the leaders of King David's army divisions, and you read something like this:
The third army commander, for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest. He was chief and there were 24,000 men in his division. This was the Benaiah who was a mighty man among the Thirty and was over the Thirty. His son Ammizabad was in charge of his division. -1 Chron 27:5-6
Now, I read this and I can't help but think, "How cool would it be to be known as a Mighty Man and to lead an army division?" I mean, clearly God used Benaiah to glorify Himself.
But then, later in the chapter, we see verses like these:
Baal-Hanan the Gederite was in charge of the olive and sycamore-fig trees in the western foothills. Joash was in charge of the supplies of olive oil.... Obil the Ishmaelite was in charge of the camels. Jehdeiah the Meronothite was in charge of the donkeys. -1 Chron 27:28,30
Huh? Olive oil? Camels? Really, David needed someone to be in charge of the Olive oil? But there they are, listed right alongside the "Mighty Men." Wow, how embarassing to be the guy over the donkeys.
But wait, look down just a bit further, to chapter 28:
David summoned all the officials of Israel to assemble at Jerusalem: the officers over the tribes, the commanders of the divisions in the service of the king, the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds, and the officials in charge of all the property and livestock belonging to the king and his sons, together with the palace officials, the mighty men and all the brave warriors.
King David rose to his feet and said: "Listen to me, my brothers and my people. I had it in my heart to build a house as a place of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD, for the footstool of our God, and I made plans to build it. But God said to me, 'You are not to build a house for my Name, because you are a warrior and have shed blood....'
"So now I charge you in the sight of all Israel and of the assembly of the LORD, and in the hearing of our God: Be careful to follow all the commands of the LORD your God, that you may possess this good land and pass it on as an inheritance to your descendants forever." -1 Chron 28:1-3,8
What? Mighty men, brave warriors, and keepers of donkeys together in the same place. All called together by David (really by God, through David) to follow His commands and accomplish His purposes. Olive oil man and Mighty Man working together to build the temple. Each one needed to accomplish the task at hand, each one's role important in the eyes of the Lord.
And so it is with you in the church. You may be a toddler teacher, or an usher, or a person who serves coffee at the cafe, or a guitar player. But you are not just that. And, please, never say you're, "Just a volunteer." You are an instrument of the Most High God, created by him and made for a purpose- His purpose- and by serving, even in a role that seems small and unimportant, you are bringing His kingdome here. And that, my friend, is important work. Even if, to you, it's just minding the olive oil.
Peace
The third army commander, for the third month, was Benaiah son of Jehoiada the priest. He was chief and there were 24,000 men in his division. This was the Benaiah who was a mighty man among the Thirty and was over the Thirty. His son Ammizabad was in charge of his division. -1 Chron 27:5-6
Now, I read this and I can't help but think, "How cool would it be to be known as a Mighty Man and to lead an army division?" I mean, clearly God used Benaiah to glorify Himself.
But then, later in the chapter, we see verses like these:
Baal-Hanan the Gederite was in charge of the olive and sycamore-fig trees in the western foothills. Joash was in charge of the supplies of olive oil.... Obil the Ishmaelite was in charge of the camels. Jehdeiah the Meronothite was in charge of the donkeys. -1 Chron 27:28,30
Huh? Olive oil? Camels? Really, David needed someone to be in charge of the Olive oil? But there they are, listed right alongside the "Mighty Men." Wow, how embarassing to be the guy over the donkeys.
But wait, look down just a bit further, to chapter 28:
David summoned all the officials of Israel to assemble at Jerusalem: the officers over the tribes, the commanders of the divisions in the service of the king, the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds, and the officials in charge of all the property and livestock belonging to the king and his sons, together with the palace officials, the mighty men and all the brave warriors.
King David rose to his feet and said: "Listen to me, my brothers and my people. I had it in my heart to build a house as a place of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD, for the footstool of our God, and I made plans to build it. But God said to me, 'You are not to build a house for my Name, because you are a warrior and have shed blood....'
"So now I charge you in the sight of all Israel and of the assembly of the LORD, and in the hearing of our God: Be careful to follow all the commands of the LORD your God, that you may possess this good land and pass it on as an inheritance to your descendants forever." -1 Chron 28:1-3,8
What? Mighty men, brave warriors, and keepers of donkeys together in the same place. All called together by David (really by God, through David) to follow His commands and accomplish His purposes. Olive oil man and Mighty Man working together to build the temple. Each one needed to accomplish the task at hand, each one's role important in the eyes of the Lord.
And so it is with you in the church. You may be a toddler teacher, or an usher, or a person who serves coffee at the cafe, or a guitar player. But you are not just that. And, please, never say you're, "Just a volunteer." You are an instrument of the Most High God, created by him and made for a purpose- His purpose- and by serving, even in a role that seems small and unimportant, you are bringing His kingdome here. And that, my friend, is important work. Even if, to you, it's just minding the olive oil.
Peace
Sunday, May 3, 2009
OneAmerica Mini Marathon Race Report
The chart tacked to my office wall had teased me since November. "You can do it," it said. "You oughtta be able to run this race in 1:43:30." What did it know? It was just a piece of paper, after all. And besides, I'd run the Mini eleven times, and never faster than an hour fifty. In 1995, I ran 1:51. Since that time, the defining goal in my running life has been to beat 1:50. It consumed my thoughts each October-May, and last year, my 1:50:36 put me on an emotional tightrope between setting a new personal best and STILL not being in the 1:40's. This race has ALWAYS reduced me to a walk at some point. 1:43 seemed absurd and impossible. But the chart, which I had downloaded from McMillan Running, seemed to have some science behind it. So, I decided I'd shoot for 1:48.
The difference this year is that I'm also training for a full marathon three weeks from now. Up until now, I had lied to myself that the Mini would just be a training run, and I didn't really have to worry about my time. All the weekend long runs, all the 6- and 7-mile tempo runs, the 1/2 mile repeats- it was all in preparation for the Big Race in 3 weeks, I had said. I am a big fat liar. Yes, I'm doing the Madison Marathon on May 24, but the closer my calendar X's got to May 2, the more I realized how important the Mini really is to me. The week leading up, when people would ask me what I expected to run, I'd sheepishly reply, "Oh, under 1:50." Only to my close friends and running accountability partners did I boldly proclaim that I'd love a 1:45.
So, I lined up at the start on Saturday with 35,000 of my neighbors, and the butterflies came like always. The forecast had called for cool temps, no wind, and a chance of spotty showers throughout the morning- pretty nice racing weather. It turned out even nicer. At the 7:30 gun time, it was 48 degrees F, and by 8:00, the sun was peering from behind the clouds.
The area before the start was more constricted than usual, as the new JW Marriott hotel is going up right at the corner of Washington and West Streets, and the fenced area around the construction site had an extra lane closed off. This made it slow running getting to the start- 2:30 from corral "D" (the fourth of 20+ corrals), but once we crossed the start line, it was pretty much free running. My problem, with my new 1:45 goal, is that I was seeded based on last years 1:50, so I really needed to run faster than those around me. 8:00 miles were the goal, so as soon as my D-Tag beeped across the start line, it was Go Time.
Mile 1 seemed fast- maybe because the race allowed headphones this year- but it wasn't. 8:06. Crap! I'm already behind. Well, I didn't panic too much, because I think I remember this mile was marked a little long last year. When mile 2 clicked off in 7:38, I relaxed a lot and settled into a groove. I headed west on Michigan Road, in pursuit of the 100 year-old Indianapolis Motor Speedway that I loved so much as a kid (and still do). The miles went by pretty fast, and I hit the 5-mile mark, on Main Street in Speedway, at 38:34, a 7:42 average pace. Perfect! I was putting time toward my 1:45 in the bank.
At about mile 5.6, you turn left into Indianapolis's most famous landmark, down under the track, and back up the only "hill" on the course, and you are deposited smack dab between turns one and two of America's Greatest Race Course. I took an energy gel just before entering the track, knowing this usually seems like such a long part of the course because of the boredom (It's really cool to see it the first time, but there are really no landmarks and few turns) and the heat radiating off the pavement(but not today). In my head, I calculated. Twenty minutes- that's it. Twenty minutes and I'm off the track. So, I enjoyed it this year. I looked for drivers and sports personalities. I cheered for the cheer squads. I set a new 10k PR in the process (47:45). I hammed it up to get my picture taken crossing the yard of bricks. And in 19 minutes, I exited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and headed back out onto Olin Avenue.
This is the part of the course that gets me every year. I think it's because I grew up on the west side, in the shadow of IMS, and I remeber going downtown to see the Pacers play and the Indians, too. It always seemed like a long drive from Speedway to downtown, and now here I am, I've run 9 miles and I still have to run ALL THE STINKIN' WAY DOWNTOWN? So, I stopped and got some Gatorade, walked while I drank it and began running again. I hit mile 10 in 1:17:06. Wow, that means the 2nd 5 miles were 38:32 vs. 38:34 for the first five. Talk about an even pace, that is just how I want to run. For a moment, this insane thought goes through my mind- "Hey, if you just ran a 21:50 last 5k, you could be under 1:40!" HA! That would be my 2nd fastest 5k ever, and I've already run 10 miles today. I just need to be glad I'm on pace, and putting some time in the bank. So, I've cast that thought out of my mind, but I think, subconciously, it makes me run a little faster. That's a mistake.
At the water stop at I start to walk again, and then at about 11.5 miles. I tell myself just for a minute, but after about 40 seconds, I feel guilty and start running again. Mile 11 goes by in 8:03. Not bad, but definitely slower. I walk a little more in mile 12, maybe twice, but never more than about 40 seconds, and run an 8:29. All downhill from here!
On the drive downtown Saturday morning, I had a vision of crossing the line when the race clock said 1:46:04. If I do that, I would be well under my 1:45 target. But, mile 13 is cruel. She is painful. I stop to walk twice, again not more than a minute each, but I hate walking when I can see the finish line RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME! Finally, I pick it up and mile 13 takes an excruciating 8:38. I cross the line, and pump my fist in a bizarre blend of satisfaction and dissatisfaction, knowing I could have run a little faster. My official time was 1:42:56- a 7 minute PR, and about 30 seconds faster than my crazy chart on the wall had predicted.
The rest of my Saturday was filled with household chores while my mind went back and forth between happiness (wow- 1:43), disappointment (what could it have been if I hadn't walked?) and exhaustion. I wonder what it would take to get in the 1:30's?
By the way, the other difference this year- on Sunday, I skipped my usual post-Mini couch surf and went for a 9 mile run.
Thanks for reading.
Steve
The difference this year is that I'm also training for a full marathon three weeks from now. Up until now, I had lied to myself that the Mini would just be a training run, and I didn't really have to worry about my time. All the weekend long runs, all the 6- and 7-mile tempo runs, the 1/2 mile repeats- it was all in preparation for the Big Race in 3 weeks, I had said. I am a big fat liar. Yes, I'm doing the Madison Marathon on May 24, but the closer my calendar X's got to May 2, the more I realized how important the Mini really is to me. The week leading up, when people would ask me what I expected to run, I'd sheepishly reply, "Oh, under 1:50." Only to my close friends and running accountability partners did I boldly proclaim that I'd love a 1:45.
So, I lined up at the start on Saturday with 35,000 of my neighbors, and the butterflies came like always. The forecast had called for cool temps, no wind, and a chance of spotty showers throughout the morning- pretty nice racing weather. It turned out even nicer. At the 7:30 gun time, it was 48 degrees F, and by 8:00, the sun was peering from behind the clouds.
The area before the start was more constricted than usual, as the new JW Marriott hotel is going up right at the corner of Washington and West Streets, and the fenced area around the construction site had an extra lane closed off. This made it slow running getting to the start- 2:30 from corral "D" (the fourth of 20+ corrals), but once we crossed the start line, it was pretty much free running. My problem, with my new 1:45 goal, is that I was seeded based on last years 1:50, so I really needed to run faster than those around me. 8:00 miles were the goal, so as soon as my D-Tag beeped across the start line, it was Go Time.
Mile 1 seemed fast- maybe because the race allowed headphones this year- but it wasn't. 8:06. Crap! I'm already behind. Well, I didn't panic too much, because I think I remember this mile was marked a little long last year. When mile 2 clicked off in 7:38, I relaxed a lot and settled into a groove. I headed west on Michigan Road, in pursuit of the 100 year-old Indianapolis Motor Speedway that I loved so much as a kid (and still do). The miles went by pretty fast, and I hit the 5-mile mark, on Main Street in Speedway, at 38:34, a 7:42 average pace. Perfect! I was putting time toward my 1:45 in the bank.
At about mile 5.6, you turn left into Indianapolis's most famous landmark, down under the track, and back up the only "hill" on the course, and you are deposited smack dab between turns one and two of America's Greatest Race Course. I took an energy gel just before entering the track, knowing this usually seems like such a long part of the course because of the boredom (It's really cool to see it the first time, but there are really no landmarks and few turns) and the heat radiating off the pavement(but not today). In my head, I calculated. Twenty minutes- that's it. Twenty minutes and I'm off the track. So, I enjoyed it this year. I looked for drivers and sports personalities. I cheered for the cheer squads. I set a new 10k PR in the process (47:45). I hammed it up to get my picture taken crossing the yard of bricks. And in 19 minutes, I exited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and headed back out onto Olin Avenue.
This is the part of the course that gets me every year. I think it's because I grew up on the west side, in the shadow of IMS, and I remeber going downtown to see the Pacers play and the Indians, too. It always seemed like a long drive from Speedway to downtown, and now here I am, I've run 9 miles and I still have to run ALL THE STINKIN' WAY DOWNTOWN? So, I stopped and got some Gatorade, walked while I drank it and began running again. I hit mile 10 in 1:17:06. Wow, that means the 2nd 5 miles were 38:32 vs. 38:34 for the first five. Talk about an even pace, that is just how I want to run. For a moment, this insane thought goes through my mind- "Hey, if you just ran a 21:50 last 5k, you could be under 1:40!" HA! That would be my 2nd fastest 5k ever, and I've already run 10 miles today. I just need to be glad I'm on pace, and putting some time in the bank. So, I've cast that thought out of my mind, but I think, subconciously, it makes me run a little faster. That's a mistake.
At the water stop at I start to walk again, and then at about 11.5 miles. I tell myself just for a minute, but after about 40 seconds, I feel guilty and start running again. Mile 11 goes by in 8:03. Not bad, but definitely slower. I walk a little more in mile 12, maybe twice, but never more than about 40 seconds, and run an 8:29. All downhill from here!
On the drive downtown Saturday morning, I had a vision of crossing the line when the race clock said 1:46:04. If I do that, I would be well under my 1:45 target. But, mile 13 is cruel. She is painful. I stop to walk twice, again not more than a minute each, but I hate walking when I can see the finish line RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME! Finally, I pick it up and mile 13 takes an excruciating 8:38. I cross the line, and pump my fist in a bizarre blend of satisfaction and dissatisfaction, knowing I could have run a little faster. My official time was 1:42:56- a 7 minute PR, and about 30 seconds faster than my crazy chart on the wall had predicted.
The rest of my Saturday was filled with household chores while my mind went back and forth between happiness (wow- 1:43), disappointment (what could it have been if I hadn't walked?) and exhaustion. I wonder what it would take to get in the 1:30's?
By the way, the other difference this year- on Sunday, I skipped my usual post-Mini couch surf and went for a 9 mile run.
Thanks for reading.
Steve
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Youth Pastors- Quit Today!
Yesterday, there was yet another story of a youth pastor accused of sexual misconduct with a student - three girls, in this case, including one that claims to be pregnant with his child. As a volunteer youth pastor (and as a father), it breaks my heart to hear stories like this. Every week I work with high school students, and its easy for me to see that some girls (and guys, for that matter) are crying out for attention, just wanting to be loved, noticed, and approved of.
As a youth pastor, we are in a position of authority, and often a trusted confidant for these vulnerable students. And every time a story like this one comes out, it puts a black mark on the Church universal, on our calling, and on the God we serve. As a youth leader (pastor, volunteer, or otherwise), we need to be laser-focused on leading and shepherding these kids to The One who can save us- Jesus Christ. This is SO IMPORTANT- the stat I heard this week is that the average college student who was active in an evangelical church in high school, walks away from his/her faith by October 15 of freshman year.
So, I just want to say one thing to anyone in the church who works with students- check your heart. If you are doing what you're doing for any reason other than to lead students into a life-changing relationship with Christ, then STEP AWAY FROM YOUR MINISTRY. If your doing it because you like hanging out with high school students, or it makes you feel young, or it gets you away from your family, or it pays the bills, or because YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS, then QUIT TODAY! No matter how big your ministry is, no matter how connected your students are to you or to each other, no matter how many other people look at what you do in awe, STOP if your only goal is anything other than leading students to Christ.
Youth groups need to be a place for students to get away from the pressures they face in school and with friends. They need to have adults there that walk alongside parents, not work against them. They must reinforce the idea of not conforming to the ways of this world, but being transformed by the grace of God. They need to be a place where parents are assured that their precious son or daughter will be built into, shepherded, loved (asexually) and accepted by people who love Jesus more than their own bodies. If your are not willing or not able to do this, then quit. It's okay. God has something else planned for you.
The church should be set apart. We are the bride of Christ. Just like in every other area of our Christian walk, people need to see from the outside how we are different from the world. If inside the church looks like the world, then what's the point? If a young girl is as likely to be led astray by a youth pastor as by a fellow student or a teacher or a coach, then why should she even bother with church? We need to be a refuge for teens struggling with their sexual identity, not a place where they can experiment with it.
If you're not willing or able to do this, quit today. Don't quit the church - it needs you and you need it- but step down from your position. Do it with all humility and grace. Because if you wait until it's too late, it could end in humiliation.
Please, check your heart.
As a youth pastor, we are in a position of authority, and often a trusted confidant for these vulnerable students. And every time a story like this one comes out, it puts a black mark on the Church universal, on our calling, and on the God we serve. As a youth leader (pastor, volunteer, or otherwise), we need to be laser-focused on leading and shepherding these kids to The One who can save us- Jesus Christ. This is SO IMPORTANT- the stat I heard this week is that the average college student who was active in an evangelical church in high school, walks away from his/her faith by October 15 of freshman year.
So, I just want to say one thing to anyone in the church who works with students- check your heart. If you are doing what you're doing for any reason other than to lead students into a life-changing relationship with Christ, then STEP AWAY FROM YOUR MINISTRY. If your doing it because you like hanging out with high school students, or it makes you feel young, or it gets you away from your family, or it pays the bills, or because YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS, then QUIT TODAY! No matter how big your ministry is, no matter how connected your students are to you or to each other, no matter how many other people look at what you do in awe, STOP if your only goal is anything other than leading students to Christ.
Youth groups need to be a place for students to get away from the pressures they face in school and with friends. They need to have adults there that walk alongside parents, not work against them. They must reinforce the idea of not conforming to the ways of this world, but being transformed by the grace of God. They need to be a place where parents are assured that their precious son or daughter will be built into, shepherded, loved (asexually) and accepted by people who love Jesus more than their own bodies. If your are not willing or not able to do this, then quit. It's okay. God has something else planned for you.
The church should be set apart. We are the bride of Christ. Just like in every other area of our Christian walk, people need to see from the outside how we are different from the world. If inside the church looks like the world, then what's the point? If a young girl is as likely to be led astray by a youth pastor as by a fellow student or a teacher or a coach, then why should she even bother with church? We need to be a refuge for teens struggling with their sexual identity, not a place where they can experiment with it.
If you're not willing or able to do this, quit today. Don't quit the church - it needs you and you need it- but step down from your position. Do it with all humility and grace. Because if you wait until it's too late, it could end in humiliation.
Please, check your heart.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Genesis Church- West Plains, Missouri trip report
It doesn't seem like one year ago when Jeff Smith, the former pastor at Genesis Church in Noblesville told me he was ready to go plant a church in his hometown of West Plains, Missouri. Well, as soon as he made it official, I told Jeff I was coming to see him on Spring Break next year, so he'd better be ready.
Well, on April 5, 2009, we got the chance to visit Genesis Church in West Plains. Here are some of the highlights and pictures.
Genesis Church meets in the Opera House in downtown West Plains, a town of about 10,000 on the edge of the Ozarks. One great thing about meeting in the Opera House is that you don't have to tell anyone in West Plains where that is. You can just put up a yard sign that says, "Opera House, Sundays at 10:00," and people know where to go. Or, if you'd rather, you can put up a billboard, like Jeff and Kim have done in 2 places in West Plains.
Or, you just park your "Hillbilly Billboard" smack dab in the middle of the courthouse square on Sunday mornings, so people who aren't paying attention will drive right into it (by the way, this is one of the trailers that used to belong to Genesis- Noblesville).
Another advantage of the Opera House is that it is a beautiful building, well-appointed for crowds and with a little more class than other options. Check out the bathrooms...
And check out the Genesis Cafe... they have both kinds of donuts!
Now, for the meat of the report. What I know you've been waiting for. The week we were there, April 5, was week 8 for the church. They had 204 the week before we arrived, up from 156 the previous week, and were afraid of what might happen due to yard signs all over town and a direct mail piece accidentally going out a couple of days early. Well, on week 8, there were 254 people there, 50 more than the previous week. Fortunately, the auditorium in the Opera House was big enough and well-equipped to handle the crowd.
Where the high attendance became a bit of a problem was in the kids' rooms. But, by God's grace, the Opera House management has been very accomodating in letting the church basically take over the kids space. They have been able to really deck out those rooms and make them exciting for the kids.
But what got me really excited about this church were the people. Just think about this... 254 people on a Sunday morning, most of whom were not active in a church before 10 weeks ago. And there were great stories, too. Guys whose marriages fell apart and found Genesis at just the right time. One kid who plays in the band who had drug problems and was blown away by the love shown to him by people in the church. Look at these people... all of them created by God and on a journey to find Him!
I was really encouraged by what we saw at Genesis-West Plains. And, I'm excited to see how God is going to bring us together again in the future. Jeff and Kim are right in their element there, by the way. Jeff's a bit of a celebrity around town (though he would never admit that) and Kim is at home with family and friends. They are very nervous, but expectant about what God is busy birthing in their hometown.
By the way... Easter Sunday? 317 people. God is on the move in Southern Missouri!
Well, on April 5, 2009, we got the chance to visit Genesis Church in West Plains. Here are some of the highlights and pictures.
Genesis Church meets in the Opera House in downtown West Plains, a town of about 10,000 on the edge of the Ozarks. One great thing about meeting in the Opera House is that you don't have to tell anyone in West Plains where that is. You can just put up a yard sign that says, "Opera House, Sundays at 10:00," and people know where to go. Or, if you'd rather, you can put up a billboard, like Jeff and Kim have done in 2 places in West Plains.
Or, you just park your "Hillbilly Billboard" smack dab in the middle of the courthouse square on Sunday mornings, so people who aren't paying attention will drive right into it (by the way, this is one of the trailers that used to belong to Genesis- Noblesville).
Another advantage of the Opera House is that it is a beautiful building, well-appointed for crowds and with a little more class than other options. Check out the bathrooms...
And check out the Genesis Cafe... they have both kinds of donuts!
Now, for the meat of the report. What I know you've been waiting for. The week we were there, April 5, was week 8 for the church. They had 204 the week before we arrived, up from 156 the previous week, and were afraid of what might happen due to yard signs all over town and a direct mail piece accidentally going out a couple of days early. Well, on week 8, there were 254 people there, 50 more than the previous week. Fortunately, the auditorium in the Opera House was big enough and well-equipped to handle the crowd.
Where the high attendance became a bit of a problem was in the kids' rooms. But, by God's grace, the Opera House management has been very accomodating in letting the church basically take over the kids space. They have been able to really deck out those rooms and make them exciting for the kids.
But what got me really excited about this church were the people. Just think about this... 254 people on a Sunday morning, most of whom were not active in a church before 10 weeks ago. And there were great stories, too. Guys whose marriages fell apart and found Genesis at just the right time. One kid who plays in the band who had drug problems and was blown away by the love shown to him by people in the church. Look at these people... all of them created by God and on a journey to find Him!
I was really encouraged by what we saw at Genesis-West Plains. And, I'm excited to see how God is going to bring us together again in the future. Jeff and Kim are right in their element there, by the way. Jeff's a bit of a celebrity around town (though he would never admit that) and Kim is at home with family and friends. They are very nervous, but expectant about what God is busy birthing in their hometown.
By the way... Easter Sunday? 317 people. God is on the move in Southern Missouri!
Monday, April 13, 2009
What my TV fast taught me
Well, it's over, and none too soon. Sunday was a great day for TV, as I was able to catch parts of the IronMan World Championship 70.3, the Paris Marathon, and Paris-Roubaix. But, I am thankful I decided to fast from television during the Lenten season, and here are some lessons I learned:
1) I can read a lot more when I'm not watching TV. Though I'm not an avid viewer anyway, I watch most of my TV in bed. Which is also where I read. During the fast, I never failed to read my bible, even one day.
2) It's hard to know what's going on without TV. Someone would ask what the weather was going to be like, and I had to confess I didn't know.
3) Even with 200 channels, there's still mostly junk. That's why we're cutting back on our DirecTv package. That, and they raised our bill $3/month this month. Sorry, guys. Really bad timing.
4) I'm very prideful. And I need to be a martyr. Whenever someone asked me, "did you see such and such last night?" I felt the need to say, "no, I'm fasting from TV right now," or some such nonsense. I was not happy with myself about that, and if you were on the receiving end of my holier-than-thou attitude, I'm sorry.
5) I don't need TV... but I like it. There were days where that's all I wanted to do when I got home... yet I survived without it.
Now you know. So, you don't have to try it. I think next year, I'll go back to giving up caffeine.
1) I can read a lot more when I'm not watching TV. Though I'm not an avid viewer anyway, I watch most of my TV in bed. Which is also where I read. During the fast, I never failed to read my bible, even one day.
2) It's hard to know what's going on without TV. Someone would ask what the weather was going to be like, and I had to confess I didn't know.
3) Even with 200 channels, there's still mostly junk. That's why we're cutting back on our DirecTv package. That, and they raised our bill $3/month this month. Sorry, guys. Really bad timing.
4) I'm very prideful. And I need to be a martyr. Whenever someone asked me, "did you see such and such last night?" I felt the need to say, "no, I'm fasting from TV right now," or some such nonsense. I was not happy with myself about that, and if you were on the receiving end of my holier-than-thou attitude, I'm sorry.
5) I don't need TV... but I like it. There were days where that's all I wanted to do when I got home... yet I survived without it.
Now you know. So, you don't have to try it. I think next year, I'll go back to giving up caffeine.
Race Report- DINO Avon 4/11/2009
Well, I've been away from the blog for awhile, mostly because I've been on Spring Break. Now, I'm back, and I've got lots to tell. But, first and foremost, the report on Saturday's race.
Being on vacation last week, I had intentionally planned a down week in my training for the Madison Marathon. Not knowing our exact schedule made it convenient to plan it this way, and it was a good time, since I was dealing with a painful bout of plantar faciitis before I left. Unfortunately, this left me feeling a little sluggish on Friday, and unsure of my training levels. I needn't have worried.
My goals going into the DINO 15k race at Avon were (1)to beat my friend, Tom, (2) to better last year's course PR of 1:18 and change, and (3) my stretch goal was to run under 1:15. I was disappointed, then, when I checked DINO's website on Friday night and found that due to heavy rainfall in the area, they had to route a new section of course. I had my strategy planned out, and it would have to change.
Arriving at the race on Saturday, I found that only a small section of the course had been changed, and it was being exchanged for an equally flat, equally long section, so there was effectively no change in difficulty. So, I set my goal to run a strong, but evenly paced race in order to make up for my poor race two weeks ago, when I set out at way too fast a pace and ended up walking part of the last 4 miles. My stretch goal, then, was to run the three 5k laps in 25 minutes, 25 minutes, and 24 minutes. This would put me under 1:15 with a little cushion. I thought this was aggressive, but doable based on my Eagle Creek race four weeks ago.
It was a beautiful day, but a little cool (37 F), so I struggled with what to wear. I ended up with shorts, a long sleeve Brooks tech t-shirt, and a New Balance running vest. I froze at the start line, but would soon warm up. Great choice!
The horn sounded and we were off. The newly paved trail at the open made for a very tight course, with 130 people jockeying for 24 inches of trail width. Against my instinct, I held back to run a slower pace, and watched Tom run away with some faster competitors. After about a mile, I realized I was running at the back of a train of about 9 people, but decided the pace was good and I would hang in for a while. We hit the two mile mark on the new section of course, and the runner in front of me glanced at his watch. "What time have you got?" I asked him. "15:47, just under 8 minute miles," he responded. Perfect! I felt nice and relaxed and the first mile of the course has the only serious downhill section on the course, so I felt good about being ahead of my stretch pace. The last mile has a serious uphill section that I walked, but I finished lap 1 at 24:48... get this- EXACTLY 8 minute pace for 3.1 miles. Coincidence, I'm sure.
Lap 2, and the crowd starts to thin out. Right after the finish line, I can see Tom about 7 runners ahead of me, probably 30 seconds or so. My instincts say to pick up the pace, but I remind myself it's a long race, and I'm catching him, anyway. So, I settle back into the marginally comfortable pace I've been running. We hit the downhill again right around mile 4 and I turn my ankle on the way down. Immediately, I'm feeling a sharp pain everytime my right foot hits the trail, and for about 15 seconds, I figure, "it's over... I can't run anymore." But, by now, Tom is only about 10 seconds ahead and I decide just to run the next mile and see what happens. Within a minute, the ankle's fine and I am right behind Tom. I asked him how he's doing and he mumbles something like, "okay, but this one's yours." So, I take off. Just before the 5 mile mark, I take a PowerBar Gel, down some water, and start up the hill. I finish the second lap at 49:36... hey, wait a minute. That's another lap at 24:48. Maybe those 200 yard strides I did at 8:00 pace on the treadmill yesterday really helped. I've now gone through 6.2 miles at exactly 8 minute pace!
After the finish line on lap 2, I decide to put the hammer down... at least by my standards. I decide I'll run the ups and downs the same, but push hard on the flats when I feel good. By mile 7, I can no longer see Tom behind me, and there are only a few runners around me (I'm passing more by now than I'm being passed by, and that's great!) so, my only motivation is to push for a sub 1:15-finish. I cross the finish line at 1:13:44 - a new PR for this course by about 5 minutes! Even, better my last lap was 24:08. So, my 25-25-24 goal turned out to be 24:48-24:48-24:08. Not too shabby, probably my best-paced race ever.
I still have some work to do to run with the faster guys in my age group- I finished 53 out of 130 or so total runners. But, I feel the progress I'm making. Only 6 weeks until Madison, and I just hope my foot holds up. After that, I'm on the bike for the Summer!
Being on vacation last week, I had intentionally planned a down week in my training for the Madison Marathon. Not knowing our exact schedule made it convenient to plan it this way, and it was a good time, since I was dealing with a painful bout of plantar faciitis before I left. Unfortunately, this left me feeling a little sluggish on Friday, and unsure of my training levels. I needn't have worried.
My goals going into the DINO 15k race at Avon were (1)to beat my friend, Tom, (2) to better last year's course PR of 1:18 and change, and (3) my stretch goal was to run under 1:15. I was disappointed, then, when I checked DINO's website on Friday night and found that due to heavy rainfall in the area, they had to route a new section of course. I had my strategy planned out, and it would have to change.
Arriving at the race on Saturday, I found that only a small section of the course had been changed, and it was being exchanged for an equally flat, equally long section, so there was effectively no change in difficulty. So, I set my goal to run a strong, but evenly paced race in order to make up for my poor race two weeks ago, when I set out at way too fast a pace and ended up walking part of the last 4 miles. My stretch goal, then, was to run the three 5k laps in 25 minutes, 25 minutes, and 24 minutes. This would put me under 1:15 with a little cushion. I thought this was aggressive, but doable based on my Eagle Creek race four weeks ago.
It was a beautiful day, but a little cool (37 F), so I struggled with what to wear. I ended up with shorts, a long sleeve Brooks tech t-shirt, and a New Balance running vest. I froze at the start line, but would soon warm up. Great choice!
The horn sounded and we were off. The newly paved trail at the open made for a very tight course, with 130 people jockeying for 24 inches of trail width. Against my instinct, I held back to run a slower pace, and watched Tom run away with some faster competitors. After about a mile, I realized I was running at the back of a train of about 9 people, but decided the pace was good and I would hang in for a while. We hit the two mile mark on the new section of course, and the runner in front of me glanced at his watch. "What time have you got?" I asked him. "15:47, just under 8 minute miles," he responded. Perfect! I felt nice and relaxed and the first mile of the course has the only serious downhill section on the course, so I felt good about being ahead of my stretch pace. The last mile has a serious uphill section that I walked, but I finished lap 1 at 24:48... get this- EXACTLY 8 minute pace for 3.1 miles. Coincidence, I'm sure.
Lap 2, and the crowd starts to thin out. Right after the finish line, I can see Tom about 7 runners ahead of me, probably 30 seconds or so. My instincts say to pick up the pace, but I remind myself it's a long race, and I'm catching him, anyway. So, I settle back into the marginally comfortable pace I've been running. We hit the downhill again right around mile 4 and I turn my ankle on the way down. Immediately, I'm feeling a sharp pain everytime my right foot hits the trail, and for about 15 seconds, I figure, "it's over... I can't run anymore." But, by now, Tom is only about 10 seconds ahead and I decide just to run the next mile and see what happens. Within a minute, the ankle's fine and I am right behind Tom. I asked him how he's doing and he mumbles something like, "okay, but this one's yours." So, I take off. Just before the 5 mile mark, I take a PowerBar Gel, down some water, and start up the hill. I finish the second lap at 49:36... hey, wait a minute. That's another lap at 24:48. Maybe those 200 yard strides I did at 8:00 pace on the treadmill yesterday really helped. I've now gone through 6.2 miles at exactly 8 minute pace!
After the finish line on lap 2, I decide to put the hammer down... at least by my standards. I decide I'll run the ups and downs the same, but push hard on the flats when I feel good. By mile 7, I can no longer see Tom behind me, and there are only a few runners around me (I'm passing more by now than I'm being passed by, and that's great!) so, my only motivation is to push for a sub 1:15-finish. I cross the finish line at 1:13:44 - a new PR for this course by about 5 minutes! Even, better my last lap was 24:08. So, my 25-25-24 goal turned out to be 24:48-24:48-24:08. Not too shabby, probably my best-paced race ever.
I still have some work to do to run with the faster guys in my age group- I finished 53 out of 130 or so total runners. But, I feel the progress I'm making. Only 6 weeks until Madison, and I just hope my foot holds up. After that, I'm on the bike for the Summer!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
On Shopping for Churches
I had a disturbing conversation with a friend today. Not a great friend, but someone I respect and trust. She said that she and her family were looking for a new church because her daughter, a high school freshman, hasn't been able to get connected and get interested in the youth ministry at our church. As someone who has led or co-led the youth ministry at our church for about 5 years now, this was interesting, frustrating, and discouraging to me all at the same time.
On one hand, her comment was that we don't "offer enough" for the high school students. We typically meet Wednesday nights, and we have either a bible study, fun night, or some combination of the two. I can see this point...I am a volunteer with a job and a family (two young kids) and I don't always have time to do everything our students would like to do. I know that's a shortcoming for me. And, we used to do more. We did monthly events for the high school students (she didn't come to those either, usually, but that's beside the point). She also said that homework often gets in the way of her daughter coming Wednesday night. I get that, too, as my first grader has a hard time finishing her homework sometimes, and I know high school students are often overwhelmed with all they have to do. Finally, she said, "I just wish we had more kids coming." I can see that point, I wish we did too. I took these comments as fair criticism and took them to heart... I really do want to do things with excellence, just like we try to do everything at Genesis.
On the other hand, I cannot invite other students. The only high school students I ever have access to are the ones that come to our church and the friends they bring. If she wants her friends to come, she should invite them. There are three ways to do youth ministry with your friends. Go to one they all attend, invite them to yours, or make friends with the people who are there. Most students will do a combination of these. On the homework front, many of our students have lots of homework, but they're really engaged and make it a priority- not over their schoolwork, but alongside it. Also, I would like to do more things, but many students won't come to the things we do offer, at least not regularly. How can we commit to offer more events just in hopes some of the less engaged students will come?
I don't know where to land on this. I've poured my heart and soul into these students, and I'm thrilled with what God has done in some of their lives, and I love being a part of that. On the other hand, I look back at the setbacks we've had- high school students that have left the faith, many that have had babies before marriage, and I really feel like a failure. Do I give up, and hope that someone else comes along with more zeal and more passion and more... time? Or, do I hang in and hope that my presence is not depriving some eager volunteer of a chance to invest in the lives of these kids?
The tough conversation was offset for me this morning, though, when I got into the auditorium. I saw a former student, a college sophomore, who is doing great, walking in her faith and she gave me a big hug. Then, I saw two sisters who were involved in the ministry and moved to Florida, and they were so excited to be back and see me and, especially, their friends with whom they shared some neat experiences. I feel very blessed to be a part of the lives of these young people, and I feel at times, that God has used me to speak into their lives. I just wish I knew if I still had the drive and desire (and ability) to do it.
So, that's it. Don't read this as a vendetta against this student or her family... I haven't mentioned names because I love them and don't want their discomfort to become the target of my frustration. I'm bummed that this girl is not connected. I'm disappointed that whatever I've done hasn't been enough. I'm frustrated that this family is church shopping to please their daughter, who may not get involved anywhere (CS Lewis, in The Screwtape Letters, suggests that if the enemy can't stop someone from going to church the next best thing is to have them shop for a church that 'suits them.') So, what would you do? I'd love your comments.
Steve
On one hand, her comment was that we don't "offer enough" for the high school students. We typically meet Wednesday nights, and we have either a bible study, fun night, or some combination of the two. I can see this point...I am a volunteer with a job and a family (two young kids) and I don't always have time to do everything our students would like to do. I know that's a shortcoming for me. And, we used to do more. We did monthly events for the high school students (she didn't come to those either, usually, but that's beside the point). She also said that homework often gets in the way of her daughter coming Wednesday night. I get that, too, as my first grader has a hard time finishing her homework sometimes, and I know high school students are often overwhelmed with all they have to do. Finally, she said, "I just wish we had more kids coming." I can see that point, I wish we did too. I took these comments as fair criticism and took them to heart... I really do want to do things with excellence, just like we try to do everything at Genesis.
On the other hand, I cannot invite other students. The only high school students I ever have access to are the ones that come to our church and the friends they bring. If she wants her friends to come, she should invite them. There are three ways to do youth ministry with your friends. Go to one they all attend, invite them to yours, or make friends with the people who are there. Most students will do a combination of these. On the homework front, many of our students have lots of homework, but they're really engaged and make it a priority- not over their schoolwork, but alongside it. Also, I would like to do more things, but many students won't come to the things we do offer, at least not regularly. How can we commit to offer more events just in hopes some of the less engaged students will come?
I don't know where to land on this. I've poured my heart and soul into these students, and I'm thrilled with what God has done in some of their lives, and I love being a part of that. On the other hand, I look back at the setbacks we've had- high school students that have left the faith, many that have had babies before marriage, and I really feel like a failure. Do I give up, and hope that someone else comes along with more zeal and more passion and more... time? Or, do I hang in and hope that my presence is not depriving some eager volunteer of a chance to invest in the lives of these kids?
The tough conversation was offset for me this morning, though, when I got into the auditorium. I saw a former student, a college sophomore, who is doing great, walking in her faith and she gave me a big hug. Then, I saw two sisters who were involved in the ministry and moved to Florida, and they were so excited to be back and see me and, especially, their friends with whom they shared some neat experiences. I feel very blessed to be a part of the lives of these young people, and I feel at times, that God has used me to speak into their lives. I just wish I knew if I still had the drive and desire (and ability) to do it.
So, that's it. Don't read this as a vendetta against this student or her family... I haven't mentioned names because I love them and don't want their discomfort to become the target of my frustration. I'm bummed that this girl is not connected. I'm disappointed that whatever I've done hasn't been enough. I'm frustrated that this family is church shopping to please their daughter, who may not get involved anywhere (CS Lewis, in The Screwtape Letters, suggests that if the enemy can't stop someone from going to church the next best thing is to have them shop for a church that 'suits them.') So, what would you do? I'd love your comments.
Steve
Monday, March 23, 2009
Facing the tempters
Reading C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters helps us to realize that there really are tempters around us trying to draw us further from God. It also helps us understand that we can too easily be fooled into thinking we can defeat them alone, or that our sin is not that important.
King Saul fell into this trap, as well. When he went to war with the Amalekites, God told him to wipe them out. But, Saul chose to keep the choice livestock for himself and his men. No big deal, right? He even tells the prophet Samuel, "I have carried out the Lord's instructions." Samuel responds with his sharp wit, "Oh yeah, then why do I hear sheep bleating?"
All sin is important to God. It's easy for us to think that secret sin, the one nobody knows about and that doesn't really hurt anyone, doesn't matter. And that's exactly what the tempters would have you think. That's not important, neither is it the next time, nor is the next step, nor the next and eventually, you're in a pit you can't escape. So, when facing the tempters, it's important to remember to never do it alone. Instead, like David, say, "I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel." It's the only language they understand.
Peace go with you.
King Saul fell into this trap, as well. When he went to war with the Amalekites, God told him to wipe them out. But, Saul chose to keep the choice livestock for himself and his men. No big deal, right? He even tells the prophet Samuel, "I have carried out the Lord's instructions." Samuel responds with his sharp wit, "Oh yeah, then why do I hear sheep bleating?"
All sin is important to God. It's easy for us to think that secret sin, the one nobody knows about and that doesn't really hurt anyone, doesn't matter. And that's exactly what the tempters would have you think. That's not important, neither is it the next time, nor is the next step, nor the next and eventually, you're in a pit you can't escape. So, when facing the tempters, it's important to remember to never do it alone. Instead, like David, say, "I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel." It's the only language they understand.
Peace go with you.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Who are you pretending to be?
"All mortals eventually become what they are pretending to be." - Uncle Screwtape, from C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters
Reading from this book last night, this passage hit me particularly hard, in two ways. First, there are things that I don't picture myself as, that my actions probably say I am. It made me ask: what do my actions say about who I am, and how does that line up with or contradict who I think I am? For instance, I say it's stupid to be obsessed with celebrities, but every once in a while I find myself stealing glances at the Life section of USA Today or sneaking a quick peak at who's dating whom on the AOL entertainment page. My words say one thing, my actions say something else. What about you? Do you say you're recovered but still sneak a drink once in a while? Do you say you're faithful to your wife, but just like to flirt a little? Right now, you are faithful, but you're pretending to be unfaithful. Will you eventually become what you're pretending to be? Will I?
On the other hand, if our actions are positive, we can use them to improve our attitude. As a runner, I know that even on days I don't feel like going out, often just a short 1/2 mile or mile jog will help improve my attitude to the point where I'm able to complete the entire workout. By pretending to be a runner that day, even if I don't feel like one, I can become one.
An old pastor friend of mine used to say it this way: Right thoughts follow right actions. At times, even when we don't feel like doing something positive, we can do it, and then we'll feel like it. So, here are some things that may aspire to. Maybe we should pretend to be them, so we will become them:
Want to be generous? Try giving.
Want to be loved? Try loving someone.
Want to be joyful? Try laughing.
Want to have a friend? Try being one.
Want to be forgiven? Try forgiving.
Peace.
Reading from this book last night, this passage hit me particularly hard, in two ways. First, there are things that I don't picture myself as, that my actions probably say I am. It made me ask: what do my actions say about who I am, and how does that line up with or contradict who I think I am? For instance, I say it's stupid to be obsessed with celebrities, but every once in a while I find myself stealing glances at the Life section of USA Today or sneaking a quick peak at who's dating whom on the AOL entertainment page. My words say one thing, my actions say something else. What about you? Do you say you're recovered but still sneak a drink once in a while? Do you say you're faithful to your wife, but just like to flirt a little? Right now, you are faithful, but you're pretending to be unfaithful. Will you eventually become what you're pretending to be? Will I?
On the other hand, if our actions are positive, we can use them to improve our attitude. As a runner, I know that even on days I don't feel like going out, often just a short 1/2 mile or mile jog will help improve my attitude to the point where I'm able to complete the entire workout. By pretending to be a runner that day, even if I don't feel like one, I can become one.
An old pastor friend of mine used to say it this way: Right thoughts follow right actions. At times, even when we don't feel like doing something positive, we can do it, and then we'll feel like it. So, here are some things that may aspire to. Maybe we should pretend to be them, so we will become them:
Want to be generous? Try giving.
Want to be loved? Try loving someone.
Want to be joyful? Try laughing.
Want to have a friend? Try being one.
Want to be forgiven? Try forgiving.
Peace.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Race Report - DINO Eagle Creek 15k
So, we returned to the scene of the crime. I have been running events in the DINO trail running series for about four years now, but I'd never been in a race like March 8, 2008. The night before, we had gotten about an inch of ice, and the night before that, we had about 4-6 inches of snow. All this made for a nice, pretty, hard-packed, treacherous course- some of which ran along an off-camber path that dropped off to the reservoir. That, combined with single-digit temps and below zero wind chills made for my least favorite trail run ever.
Fast forward one year- the sun is shining and it is a relatively balmy 30 degrees at gun time. We got to Eagle Creek Park way early, and had over an hour to kill after registration. While I wasn't too keen on burning off energy, I felt like I'd need a good warmup to start the race well. In the past, these 15k trail runs have been endurance challenges for me, but since I'm now deep in the heart of training for the Madison Marathon, the distance was not a mental factor. That mindset would definitely affect my performance today.
I was there with my friend Tom. Over the past few years, he and I share a friendly rivalry that has been horribly one-sided in his favor (as a younger, singler, slimmer guy with no kids, he has the decided advantage). But this year, the marathon training has helped my early-season fitness, and his serious girlfriend has, I think, detracted from his. Tom and I took off for a brief warmup jog, about .3 miles from the car to the start line. He decided to head inside to the warming hut, while I thought about finding a place to leave my two Diet Cokes I drank before the race. As I ran around contemplating "bush or port-a-pot?" I put in another quarter mile or so. I settled on the long line at the port-a-john and barely finished in time for the gun.
At the line, the RD Brian announced that they had changed the course slightly from last year. While the 15k course would still be 3 loops of the 5k course, it was a tad bit shorter (right around 9 miles), and certainly would be less slippery- mostly dry with just a few mud spots. That was good, since it took me over 1:40 last year.
Right before the start, I noticed I was up too close to the front. My normal position (pack right, 10 feet off the line) was probably great for the normal DINO race with 80-100 people, but it was then I realized over 200 people had shown up for the 15k (I never remember the 15k being bigger than the 5k, but it was today). So, the siren sounded and we were off. Tom decided early on that he was going to run behind me as long as possible in his normal strategic attempt to pip me at the finish. So, I decided to push the pace. All of a sudden, this nice, cool run through the woods became a nine-mile tempo run. Never mind that I had never done a 9-mile tempo run before, nor that I had never done a tempo run on the trails. I was determined to lose Tom.
2 miles- I'm running a fast tempo pace, but Tom is still with me. He's started to fade a few times around corners, or as I power up short hills, but he manages to bungee back to me as I recover. Just short of 3 miles, as we come back around to close lap 1, I notice that I have gapped him. While I want to take it easy on the second lap, I decide I need to keep pushing. First lap: 22:53. WAIT! That can't be right. That's less than 7:40 miles, which is my treadmill tempo pace. Oh well, push on.
Lap 2, my "speed" if you can call it that, starts to catch up to me. By mile 4, a few people are passing me, but I'm not usually this far up in the pack, so it doesn't bother me too much. Still, not wanting to fade, I decide to ingest a gel at 4.5. I'd been drinking Powerade from my handheld bottle every 1/2 mile or so, and after the gel, I think the sugar starts to get to me. By mile 5.5 or so, I'm feeling a little queasy and my legs are very heavy from the short but steep hills. Still, I finish lap 2 in 46:30, so the second lap was a slower but respectable 23:37. Still under 8:00 miles.
Lap 3 begins, and at this point, I'm thinking three things: 1) If I can run another 23:30, I'll finish under 1:10 (my previous PR for one of these races was 1:18 and change). 2) I don't see Tom behind me anywhere. I must have put some more time into him this lap. And 3) My stomach is not any better yet. Still, I soldier on, through the grove of pine trees, across the road and down the rope hill, then back up the steepest climb on the trail. At the 7.5 mark, this thought crosses my mind: "How long would it take to puke? I mean, could I just get it all out before Tom catches me?" But, with not quite enough in my stomach to throw up, I just push on. At 8 miles, I feel intense desire to run faster, but find my legs to be unwilling participants. Climbing up the last long hill, I turn around and see Tom only about 90 seconds behind me at the bottom. Now, I turn it on.
I run across the last parking lot, through the two mudholes, past the playground and toward the finish line. Wow, there are a lot of people up in this part of the pack. When I run toward the back, I usually finish alone, but I'm passing and being passed all the way to the line. As I crest the last little rise, I can see the finish clock. Darn! It's already past 1:10. I relax a little and cruise in at 1:10:33, 83rd place out of 200. Certainly not spectactular, but an 8 minute PR for me, and two minutes ahead of my younger, fitter comrade.
It was a great day, a great run, and a terrific start to the season. In two weeks, we'll be at Mounds State Park in Anderson, IN for the next race. Hope to see you there!
Fast forward one year- the sun is shining and it is a relatively balmy 30 degrees at gun time. We got to Eagle Creek Park way early, and had over an hour to kill after registration. While I wasn't too keen on burning off energy, I felt like I'd need a good warmup to start the race well. In the past, these 15k trail runs have been endurance challenges for me, but since I'm now deep in the heart of training for the Madison Marathon, the distance was not a mental factor. That mindset would definitely affect my performance today.
I was there with my friend Tom. Over the past few years, he and I share a friendly rivalry that has been horribly one-sided in his favor (as a younger, singler, slimmer guy with no kids, he has the decided advantage). But this year, the marathon training has helped my early-season fitness, and his serious girlfriend has, I think, detracted from his. Tom and I took off for a brief warmup jog, about .3 miles from the car to the start line. He decided to head inside to the warming hut, while I thought about finding a place to leave my two Diet Cokes I drank before the race. As I ran around contemplating "bush or port-a-pot?" I put in another quarter mile or so. I settled on the long line at the port-a-john and barely finished in time for the gun.
At the line, the RD Brian announced that they had changed the course slightly from last year. While the 15k course would still be 3 loops of the 5k course, it was a tad bit shorter (right around 9 miles), and certainly would be less slippery- mostly dry with just a few mud spots. That was good, since it took me over 1:40 last year.
Right before the start, I noticed I was up too close to the front. My normal position (pack right, 10 feet off the line) was probably great for the normal DINO race with 80-100 people, but it was then I realized over 200 people had shown up for the 15k (I never remember the 15k being bigger than the 5k, but it was today). So, the siren sounded and we were off. Tom decided early on that he was going to run behind me as long as possible in his normal strategic attempt to pip me at the finish. So, I decided to push the pace. All of a sudden, this nice, cool run through the woods became a nine-mile tempo run. Never mind that I had never done a 9-mile tempo run before, nor that I had never done a tempo run on the trails. I was determined to lose Tom.
2 miles- I'm running a fast tempo pace, but Tom is still with me. He's started to fade a few times around corners, or as I power up short hills, but he manages to bungee back to me as I recover. Just short of 3 miles, as we come back around to close lap 1, I notice that I have gapped him. While I want to take it easy on the second lap, I decide I need to keep pushing. First lap: 22:53. WAIT! That can't be right. That's less than 7:40 miles, which is my treadmill tempo pace. Oh well, push on.
Lap 2, my "speed" if you can call it that, starts to catch up to me. By mile 4, a few people are passing me, but I'm not usually this far up in the pack, so it doesn't bother me too much. Still, not wanting to fade, I decide to ingest a gel at 4.5. I'd been drinking Powerade from my handheld bottle every 1/2 mile or so, and after the gel, I think the sugar starts to get to me. By mile 5.5 or so, I'm feeling a little queasy and my legs are very heavy from the short but steep hills. Still, I finish lap 2 in 46:30, so the second lap was a slower but respectable 23:37. Still under 8:00 miles.
Lap 3 begins, and at this point, I'm thinking three things: 1) If I can run another 23:30, I'll finish under 1:10 (my previous PR for one of these races was 1:18 and change). 2) I don't see Tom behind me anywhere. I must have put some more time into him this lap. And 3) My stomach is not any better yet. Still, I soldier on, through the grove of pine trees, across the road and down the rope hill, then back up the steepest climb on the trail. At the 7.5 mark, this thought crosses my mind: "How long would it take to puke? I mean, could I just get it all out before Tom catches me?" But, with not quite enough in my stomach to throw up, I just push on. At 8 miles, I feel intense desire to run faster, but find my legs to be unwilling participants. Climbing up the last long hill, I turn around and see Tom only about 90 seconds behind me at the bottom. Now, I turn it on.
I run across the last parking lot, through the two mudholes, past the playground and toward the finish line. Wow, there are a lot of people up in this part of the pack. When I run toward the back, I usually finish alone, but I'm passing and being passed all the way to the line. As I crest the last little rise, I can see the finish clock. Darn! It's already past 1:10. I relax a little and cruise in at 1:10:33, 83rd place out of 200. Certainly not spectactular, but an 8 minute PR for me, and two minutes ahead of my younger, fitter comrade.
It was a great day, a great run, and a terrific start to the season. In two weeks, we'll be at Mounds State Park in Anderson, IN for the next race. Hope to see you there!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Choose this day...
"...But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." -Joshua 24:15
I have this stenciled in my living room, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." And, for the most part, I have chosen that. I read my bible daily, go to church every Sunday, I'm involved in kids' lives, and really try to serve Him. So, why is it that I still need to choose each day whom I will serve? It seems like some days, I really want to serve my paycheck, or I want to serve my flesh, or I want to serve my stomach or my bank account. Usually, I really just want to serve ME!
I once heard someone say about marriage that you only have to choose to be faithful once, then you manage that decision daily. That way, you don't have to choose to be faithful each time you are tempted to stray. I've done a great job of that with my marriage. But maybe we need the same attitude for God. I chose one time to serve Him, now I will manage that decision daily. Then, I won't have to choose each day.
I have this stenciled in my living room, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." And, for the most part, I have chosen that. I read my bible daily, go to church every Sunday, I'm involved in kids' lives, and really try to serve Him. So, why is it that I still need to choose each day whom I will serve? It seems like some days, I really want to serve my paycheck, or I want to serve my flesh, or I want to serve my stomach or my bank account. Usually, I really just want to serve ME!
I once heard someone say about marriage that you only have to choose to be faithful once, then you manage that decision daily. That way, you don't have to choose to be faithful each time you are tempted to stray. I've done a great job of that with my marriage. But maybe we need the same attitude for God. I chose one time to serve Him, now I will manage that decision daily. Then, I won't have to choose each day.
Friday, March 6, 2009
On forgiveness and prayer
Earlier this week, I was at lunch with a person and he asked to pray. As he closed his prayer, he asked forgiveness for his sins. It might as well have been a difibrillator for me. What's this? Forgiveness of sins? I had forgotten to pray for that. Believe it or not, I had learned to take this for granted.
How can someone get so used to the idea of grace that we take it for granted? That we forget about the sacrifice made for us. How could I be so arrogant as to just assume I was forgiven for what I did yesterday?
Well, I'm not forgetting now. Jesus said, "When you pray... pray like this: '...and forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.' If we pray together soon, please remind me.
How can someone get so used to the idea of grace that we take it for granted? That we forget about the sacrifice made for us. How could I be so arrogant as to just assume I was forgiven for what I did yesterday?
Well, I'm not forgetting now. Jesus said, "When you pray... pray like this: '...and forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.' If we pray together soon, please remind me.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Concerned about the economy? Maybe you should pray.
I was really moved and convicted by this prayer offered by Max Lucado about our national economy.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. -2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. -2 Chronicles 7:14
Monday, March 2, 2009
I'm thinking of calling it, "All work and no TV make Steve something something..."
Go crazy? Don't mind if I do!
So, I'm now at day 6 with no TV, and honestly, it's been generally easier than I thought. With minor exceptions. For instance, yesterday I get home after a long weekend, working mostly, and I just want to crash and watch the US Indoor track and field championships, or some other mind-numbing piece of drivel to unwind. No such luck- no TV for lent.
Instead, I'm getting lot's of reading done. Just finished Lauren Winner's book, Real Sex. Very interesting read about God's creation of and plan for sex. I'm also getting some running in, with 11 miles on Friday and 7 on Sunday.
Jury's still out on which is better... the me with TV or without.
So, I'm now at day 6 with no TV, and honestly, it's been generally easier than I thought. With minor exceptions. For instance, yesterday I get home after a long weekend, working mostly, and I just want to crash and watch the US Indoor track and field championships, or some other mind-numbing piece of drivel to unwind. No such luck- no TV for lent.
Instead, I'm getting lot's of reading done. Just finished Lauren Winner's book, Real Sex. Very interesting read about God's creation of and plan for sex. I'm also getting some running in, with 11 miles on Friday and 7 on Sunday.
Jury's still out on which is better... the me with TV or without.
Friday at NAHBS
So, I spent a good portion of my day last Friday at the North American Handbuilt Bicycle Show in Indianapolis. What a day! I went in with no particular agenda, nor any desire for a new bicycle, but I sure left with one. First, some highlights.
Of course, there were great looking bikes, like this Townie:
But, there were also things you don't see everyday, like this wild bamboo ride from Calfee Designs:
Most of the displays were bikes, but there were some components. Like these Rasta headsets from Chris King:
There were other, more practical ideas, too. Let's say you find yourself as the stoker on a tandem. You get thirsty, but you're not really the water type. Instead, you want something with a little kick. Well, CoMotion has you covered:
But my favorite, by far, was the fixie from Courage out of Portland. I talked to the owner, Aaron, for a while, and he was a great guy. Plus, he made beautiful bikes. Look at this:
I mean, look at the detail on this dropout:
Beautiful. Lots of fun. Now, if I just had $2,200. For the frame and fork only. Well, someday...
Of course, there were great looking bikes, like this Townie:
But, there were also things you don't see everyday, like this wild bamboo ride from Calfee Designs:
Most of the displays were bikes, but there were some components. Like these Rasta headsets from Chris King:
There were other, more practical ideas, too. Let's say you find yourself as the stoker on a tandem. You get thirsty, but you're not really the water type. Instead, you want something with a little kick. Well, CoMotion has you covered:
But my favorite, by far, was the fixie from Courage out of Portland. I talked to the owner, Aaron, for a while, and he was a great guy. Plus, he made beautiful bikes. Look at this:
I mean, look at the detail on this dropout:
Beautiful. Lots of fun. Now, if I just had $2,200. For the frame and fork only. Well, someday...
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
What is Joy?
Since I'm preaching about Living a life of Joy this weekend, I'd love to have your opinion: What does Joy mean to you?
Monday, February 23, 2009
Outliers and it's implications
I just finished Malcolm Gladwell's new book, Outliers. The premise of the book is that outliers, or those people who are so far above average in some area as to be considered an anomaly, usually have had more opportunity than normal folks. In fact, what we often attribute to hard work, talent, and skill is often the result, instead, of more opportunities to succeed than average people. Even though outliers generally are more skilled, talented, lucky, or smarter than average people, Godin suggests, they have had more opportunity.
Bill Gates is a multi-billionaire because he's brilliant, yes. But he's not the MOST brilliant person/businessman in the world. However, he was born at exactly the right time for a young man interested in computers, and the circumstances of his life were such that he had an extraordinary amount of programming hours before he ever went to Harvard (the results of which are well-documented). The Beatles were huge in the US because of their talent and looks, yes, but they also spent an inordinant amount of time perfecting their craft in the strip clubs of Hamburg, Germany. Opportunity matters.
And, so it is with spiritual growth. The most mature, grounded Christians I know aren't necessarily the smartest, or most talented, so that they can read a passage of the Bible and immediately understand it. But, they do make the most of opportunities to read it- and create opportunities in their lives to spend time with God.
So, it is with some trepidation that I announce my plans for Lent. No, I'm not Catholic. But, I find I don't do a good job of self-denial, and the 40-day period leading up to Easter is a great excuse for me to focus on something else besides feeding my desires. So this year, in lieu of last year's failed attempt to give up caffeine, I am fasting from TV. Starting this Wednesday, Ash Wednesday, I will go 40 days with no television. No The Office. No March Madness. No Redbox. Nothing to soften my brain.
During the next 40 days, there will be one less thing to prevent me from having opportunity to interact with my creator and savior.
I'll let you know how it goes.
Peace.
Bill Gates is a multi-billionaire because he's brilliant, yes. But he's not the MOST brilliant person/businessman in the world. However, he was born at exactly the right time for a young man interested in computers, and the circumstances of his life were such that he had an extraordinary amount of programming hours before he ever went to Harvard (the results of which are well-documented). The Beatles were huge in the US because of their talent and looks, yes, but they also spent an inordinant amount of time perfecting their craft in the strip clubs of Hamburg, Germany. Opportunity matters.
And, so it is with spiritual growth. The most mature, grounded Christians I know aren't necessarily the smartest, or most talented, so that they can read a passage of the Bible and immediately understand it. But, they do make the most of opportunities to read it- and create opportunities in their lives to spend time with God.
So, it is with some trepidation that I announce my plans for Lent. No, I'm not Catholic. But, I find I don't do a good job of self-denial, and the 40-day period leading up to Easter is a great excuse for me to focus on something else besides feeding my desires. So this year, in lieu of last year's failed attempt to give up caffeine, I am fasting from TV. Starting this Wednesday, Ash Wednesday, I will go 40 days with no television. No The Office. No March Madness. No Redbox. Nothing to soften my brain.
During the next 40 days, there will be one less thing to prevent me from having opportunity to interact with my creator and savior.
I'll let you know how it goes.
Peace.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Run Report- Morgan Monroe State Forest
For readers of my blog who have no interest in running, I apologize in advance. This is very long.
Valentines day 2009- my wife decided to take the kids down to Grandma's house- a three-hour drive one way. This left me with the entire day to do what I wanted. So, I packed up the car with two Powerades, two peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (the salmonella-free variety), some pretzels and a Hammer Gel and headed down south to Morgan-Monroe state forest. As part of my training for the Madison, Wisconsin Marathon at the end of May, I had hoped to get in the high-teens of miles, but my plan was to spend a lot of time on my feet- which I read is more important than miles covered.
After an interesting morning of getting the family on the road, and the 90 minute drive, I arrived at the trailhead about 9:30 am. I put on an extra layer to accomodate the 35*F temps, and some bright clothing to deal with the goose and rabbit hunters. I filled my Nathan handheld bottle with Powerade, zipped a hammer gel in my pocket, strapped on my MP3 player and headed out. Problem 1- MP3 player was dead. Completely. I had spent 30 minutes last night loading it up with music for today. Fortunately, I had the foresight to pack a spare battery. Unfortunately, the battery was not the issue. Looks like this run will be done without music.
So, I headed out anyway. My plan was to do all or part of the low gap trail (10 miles), come back to the car to eat lunch, then head out for some more. So, I started down the Orcutt trailhead that would lead to Low Gap (part of the Low Gap trail is along the Tecumseh Trail, a 50 mile trail which also hosts the Tecumseh Trail Marathon each year.
I got about a half mile down the trail before I noticed large sections of the trail had been overrun with logging roads and several downed trees. It was then I remembered how this area had been hard hit by tornadoes (2007) and flooding (2008), and the forest had paid the price. After trying to run down these newly-created logging roads, made soft by 2+ inches of rain last week, my shoes were being sucked 6-8 inches deep in the mud with each step. So, I decided that Plan B was in order. I turned around and headed back to the trailhead.
So, instead, I ran the Three Lakes Trail, a 10.4 mile trail which connects, as the astute reader may guess, three lakes. Although one, Beanblossom Lake, is actually a dry lake bed. I ran down the road less than a half-mile to the trailhead and found it with little difficulty. The trail started out as a wide fire trail, then quickly narrowed to singletrack, which crossed a stream repeatedly. I was very cautious not to get my feet wet this early in the day, as much as I would have liked to clean the mud off my shoes. So, I ran the trail while walking gingerly across the strategically placed rocks in the stream.
I quickly noticed the trail was blazed with white diamonds painted on the trees about every 500 feet, but I was too busy enjoying the crisp air and the solitude to watch them, so I frequently left the trail in favor of wider fire trail. Then, I'd have to look around and find the blazes. At one point, the trail took me right through a great plantation of red pine.
At one point, I came to a sign on the trail that said "Private Property" and realized I had once again left the trail. I doubled back about a half mile and found the trademark blazes. After that excursion, I didn't leave the trail again.
Now, there was just one other problem. I was certain I was running toward Beanblossom Lake, and after the 3 miles I thought I had run, I should have been there. But, I hadn't made any road crossings, which the trail map said I should. And, why did I turn left back there instead of right? Anyway, I continued on the trail and came to a set of switchbacks that were steep enough I had to walk, but they took me from the streambed below to a ridge about 200 feet up in about half a mile. Once I reached the ridge, I saw that I had been out about an hour, so I sucked in my raspberry Hammer Gel, chased it with a swig of grape Powerade, and continued along the trail.
At an hour and a half (including my two or three off-course excursions), I reached Bryant Lake and realized I had been going the opposite way on the trail than I thought! It was comforting to finally know where I was, but disappointing that my map skills were not better and a little disheartening to know I still had 4-5 miles to get back to the car with only a half bottle of Powerade. Still, I soldiered on. After a brief stint in some thick swampbottom mud, I was back on solid trail, running slightly up to a section which followed some powerlines and took me down to Beanblossom lake. So that's what a dry lake bed looks like! I made the turn and headed back up the trail toward the trailhead. I made the fire trail crossing, just like the map said, then the road crossing, ditto. At about the 1 mile to go mark, I saw my first hiker of the day. The trail took a sharp right turn soon after, and I noticed an old cemetery straight ahead, so I ran a little off course to investigate.
I ran downhill to several stream crossings (this looks familiar), then realized it was now time to clean my shoes off in the stream. I now believe that the creeks in Morgan Monroe State Forest are composed primarily of runoff directly from the Arctic Circle. Then, back up the hill to the road, past the forest headquarters and to my car.
In the end, I gave myself credit for 13 miles, though it may have been longer than that. With the walking, turnarounds, looking at the map, stopping to take pictures, etc., it took about 2.5 hours- not speedy, by any stretch, but a great day in the woods! I need to do it again soon.
Valentines day 2009- my wife decided to take the kids down to Grandma's house- a three-hour drive one way. This left me with the entire day to do what I wanted. So, I packed up the car with two Powerades, two peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (the salmonella-free variety), some pretzels and a Hammer Gel and headed down south to Morgan-Monroe state forest. As part of my training for the Madison, Wisconsin Marathon at the end of May, I had hoped to get in the high-teens of miles, but my plan was to spend a lot of time on my feet- which I read is more important than miles covered.
After an interesting morning of getting the family on the road, and the 90 minute drive, I arrived at the trailhead about 9:30 am. I put on an extra layer to accomodate the 35*F temps, and some bright clothing to deal with the goose and rabbit hunters. I filled my Nathan handheld bottle with Powerade, zipped a hammer gel in my pocket, strapped on my MP3 player and headed out. Problem 1- MP3 player was dead. Completely. I had spent 30 minutes last night loading it up with music for today. Fortunately, I had the foresight to pack a spare battery. Unfortunately, the battery was not the issue. Looks like this run will be done without music.
So, I headed out anyway. My plan was to do all or part of the low gap trail (10 miles), come back to the car to eat lunch, then head out for some more. So, I started down the Orcutt trailhead that would lead to Low Gap (part of the Low Gap trail is along the Tecumseh Trail, a 50 mile trail which also hosts the Tecumseh Trail Marathon each year.
I got about a half mile down the trail before I noticed large sections of the trail had been overrun with logging roads and several downed trees. It was then I remembered how this area had been hard hit by tornadoes (2007) and flooding (2008), and the forest had paid the price. After trying to run down these newly-created logging roads, made soft by 2+ inches of rain last week, my shoes were being sucked 6-8 inches deep in the mud with each step. So, I decided that Plan B was in order. I turned around and headed back to the trailhead.
So, instead, I ran the Three Lakes Trail, a 10.4 mile trail which connects, as the astute reader may guess, three lakes. Although one, Beanblossom Lake, is actually a dry lake bed. I ran down the road less than a half-mile to the trailhead and found it with little difficulty. The trail started out as a wide fire trail, then quickly narrowed to singletrack, which crossed a stream repeatedly. I was very cautious not to get my feet wet this early in the day, as much as I would have liked to clean the mud off my shoes. So, I ran the trail while walking gingerly across the strategically placed rocks in the stream.
I quickly noticed the trail was blazed with white diamonds painted on the trees about every 500 feet, but I was too busy enjoying the crisp air and the solitude to watch them, so I frequently left the trail in favor of wider fire trail. Then, I'd have to look around and find the blazes. At one point, the trail took me right through a great plantation of red pine.
At one point, I came to a sign on the trail that said "Private Property" and realized I had once again left the trail. I doubled back about a half mile and found the trademark blazes. After that excursion, I didn't leave the trail again.
Now, there was just one other problem. I was certain I was running toward Beanblossom Lake, and after the 3 miles I thought I had run, I should have been there. But, I hadn't made any road crossings, which the trail map said I should. And, why did I turn left back there instead of right? Anyway, I continued on the trail and came to a set of switchbacks that were steep enough I had to walk, but they took me from the streambed below to a ridge about 200 feet up in about half a mile. Once I reached the ridge, I saw that I had been out about an hour, so I sucked in my raspberry Hammer Gel, chased it with a swig of grape Powerade, and continued along the trail.
At an hour and a half (including my two or three off-course excursions), I reached Bryant Lake and realized I had been going the opposite way on the trail than I thought! It was comforting to finally know where I was, but disappointing that my map skills were not better and a little disheartening to know I still had 4-5 miles to get back to the car with only a half bottle of Powerade. Still, I soldiered on. After a brief stint in some thick swampbottom mud, I was back on solid trail, running slightly up to a section which followed some powerlines and took me down to Beanblossom lake. So that's what a dry lake bed looks like! I made the turn and headed back up the trail toward the trailhead. I made the fire trail crossing, just like the map said, then the road crossing, ditto. At about the 1 mile to go mark, I saw my first hiker of the day. The trail took a sharp right turn soon after, and I noticed an old cemetery straight ahead, so I ran a little off course to investigate.
I ran downhill to several stream crossings (this looks familiar), then realized it was now time to clean my shoes off in the stream. I now believe that the creeks in Morgan Monroe State Forest are composed primarily of runoff directly from the Arctic Circle. Then, back up the hill to the road, past the forest headquarters and to my car.
In the end, I gave myself credit for 13 miles, though it may have been longer than that. With the walking, turnarounds, looking at the map, stopping to take pictures, etc., it took about 2.5 hours- not speedy, by any stretch, but a great day in the woods! I need to do it again soon.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
The REAL Ace of Cakes
I heard it said one time that God is making a cake of our life. He picks the ingredients, and puts them in the batter in just the right proportions.
If we were making the cake, we might tend to leave out the stuff that didn't taste good. In fact, if we're being honest, we may taste the raw eggs and decide they weren't necessary. Flour doesn't really taste that good either. And have you ever tried to down a teaspoon of baking powder by itself? How about drink a bottle of vanilla? Yuck! If I were making a cake of my life, it very likely would only have sugar in it. But that wouldn't be a good cake now, would it?
But God warned us that there will be things in our life that we don't like. "In this life you will have trouble," Jesus once said. That's some promise for becoming a Christian, huh? "Hey, follow me and you'll still have problems."
But, here's the real promise... let Me have control of your life, and I'll make it beautiful. Let me bake your cake... there will still be stuff put in that you don't like. There will still be lots of stirring and whipping and intense heat applied from time to time. But, I promise, at the end, it will be worth it.
The way Jesus said it is this, "...but take heart, for I have overcome the world." The problems of this world are temporary, and if you truly put your faith in Jesus... if you trust him to be the leader of your life, what you'll end up with is a glorious, delicious cake that is your life.
If we were making the cake, we might tend to leave out the stuff that didn't taste good. In fact, if we're being honest, we may taste the raw eggs and decide they weren't necessary. Flour doesn't really taste that good either. And have you ever tried to down a teaspoon of baking powder by itself? How about drink a bottle of vanilla? Yuck! If I were making a cake of my life, it very likely would only have sugar in it. But that wouldn't be a good cake now, would it?
But God warned us that there will be things in our life that we don't like. "In this life you will have trouble," Jesus once said. That's some promise for becoming a Christian, huh? "Hey, follow me and you'll still have problems."
But, here's the real promise... let Me have control of your life, and I'll make it beautiful. Let me bake your cake... there will still be stuff put in that you don't like. There will still be lots of stirring and whipping and intense heat applied from time to time. But, I promise, at the end, it will be worth it.
The way Jesus said it is this, "...but take heart, for I have overcome the world." The problems of this world are temporary, and if you truly put your faith in Jesus... if you trust him to be the leader of your life, what you'll end up with is a glorious, delicious cake that is your life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
