Running in the Rain

Romans 12:12 “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Have you ever run in the rain?

Nathan did last night. He along with many other student athletes participated in our District track meet. Instead of the sunny mid 70s weather of May that we were all hoping to enjoy, the temperature was chilly and the sky was overcast. Part way through the meet the rain began to fall, but the races continued on.

All the parents, family members and friends pulled on hoods, wrapped up in blankets, and hunkered down under large colorful umbrellas. This is not what we had planned on, but we were there for the long haul.

As we watched from under our umbrella cocoons, each runner stripped off his warm-up suit when his race was called and took his mark. The starting gun’s sharp report ricocheted through the stadium and the runners took off through the downpour. I was impressed with the determination of the competitors. It couldn’t have been as easy to run in this kind of weather, but they gave it all they had. Dripping wet, they crossed the finish line.

I have never run a foot race in the rain, but there are plenty of times when the clouds have opened up on my circumstances. Sometimes things just don’t turn out the way I had hoped. When this happens it is important not to give up. Focus on the goal, and put one foot in front of the other. One lap at a time will bring you to the finish line.

When the going gets tough, God’s children can be joyful in hope. There is an end to the race. We must be patient in affliction. Persevere with the strength that only God can give. Be faithful in prayer. Your heavenly Father is watching you and hears your cry for help. He will provide all you need and cheer you on.

The rain continued to fall last night. We were cold and soaked, but we stayed until the last lap of the last race. I was so glad to get into the truck and turn the heat on high, but it was worth it because Nathan’s 4X400 meter relay team finished in first place for their heat and advanced to this weekend’s finals!

When you have to run in the rain, don’t quit. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. This is the way to finish strong.

Love,

Mama