So it's been awhile since I've posted anything at all, much less anything worth reading. But I'd like to share a few thoughts from our Small Group Bible Study. We meet every Tuesday night and have recently started going through the book of James. Last year we took on Romans, covering a chapter every week or so. The practicality and straightforwardness of James has been a change of pace, one that I'm increasingly excited about.
In chapter 1 we read the well-known verses on facing trials and how we ought to go about that joyfully. I had to admit to the group that trials in my life don't exactly make me a joyful person, much less one of PURE joy. We discussed ways to turn trials into triumphs, how each experience we go through helps our attitude adjust for the next struggle that will inevitably come our way. But the two points I took away from our time are these:
1. Having joy in the middle of our trials is an incredible testimony to those around us. I see this time and again in other people, but hope that I too can seek out the good in everything so that those watching me will see God in me, despite any turmoil at the time.
2. Trials in our lives further God's kingdom. Many times we discover after the fact that God has worked in various situations for good later down the road. It takes time to realize that. But do we stop and consider as we are enduring a trial that God is doing amazing things through it at that very moment?
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In other news, I can't relate the excitement at having this week over with! It's been a tough one, but one of accomplishment and great relief as well. God is good.
Found this quote about long runs in an article the other day and liked it...
"The question of suffering comes up often when you discuss running with those who don't care for it. These people assume that discomfort is compounded by the mile. How to convince them that, in fact, the opposite is true, that there are gains not realized in shorter runs? Time, for one--unfettered time, free from all the technological intrusions that have altered the rhythm of our existence and increased, for many of us, friction. Time to work out your problems. Time to listen. Every run has its own sound track, but long runs are symphonic: The rustle of wind through bare autumn trees, the train a mile away through the swamp, the thrum of an interstate so insulated from the green tunnel of a tow-path that it could well be the sea. And there is the internal rhythm to consider, the way it leaves your body feeling exhausted but sublimely sated, as if the time you spent in rhythmic friction had answered a question you did not even know you had."
So despite the events of the last week or so (which I will not even try to relate), I'd like to present some proof that we did indeed enjoy some high-quality family time amidst the chaos...
(Note: There was an exceptional photo of Mom and Dad cutting our Christmas ham with a hacksaw, but I decided to refrain from posting that. Just so you know.)
Seems I haven't had much to say over the last week or two. That, or I merely haven't had time to sit and write anything. Shocker. So here's a recap on the most recent bit of life...
I guess I discovered in college that my field of work would be more stressful than the average desk job. Cheery demands of 'I need this now!'and deadline after deadline have greeted me each morning as of late. But, if you know me at all, you know I thrive on such hecticness. So here's to casino advertising, marketing newsletters, and grocery store paraphanalia.
The running schedule is getting me up way too early and making me aim for a senior citizen's bedtime! Too bad Kathleen and Amber keep me up watching Alias several times a week. So addicting! Thankfully, training is going well, and I again have some great encouragement and advice along the way. Despite the balancing act of activities, Austin is looming nearer. 8 weeks from race weekend!
It is, however, time for a break. So to Canyon I fly, though only for a quick trip. 4 days doesn't seem like much, but then, it never does. The time will no doubt be filled with Nickson adventure. Always to be expected.
Hope your holiday time is wonderful. Remember that we are indeed very blessed people!
Our false self demands a formula before we'll engage; we want a guarantee of success. But there comes a time in life when you've got to break away from all that and head off into the unknown with God. This is a vital part of our journey and if we balk here, the journey ends. ~John Eldredge
