a word to those who commit random acts of violence – we are stronger – we will still run

We will still run.  We will still fly.  We will still choose to live our lives without the fear that some would seek to smother us under.  We will finish this race.  We are stronger.  We know a stronger God.  He is BIGGER than any problem we would encounter in this world.  We know the Truth.  It sets us free from the worries and fears of this life.  We know the end of the story – HE WINS.

Like many of you, as an American, a believer, a mom to 3 kids, and a fellow runner who has only dreamed of the chance to run in the Boston Marathon, my heart deeply aches about the tragedy in Boston yesterday.

The “why” begs to be answered when innocent people are so unsuspectingly and heartlessly attacked.  But the answers rarely come.  And even when they do, they seem insufficient, empty, difficult to understand.

We live in a desperate world.  9-1-1.  Terrorism.  Lockdown.  High Alert.  These are words that mean different things to us today than they did in past years.  People are hurting.  Some feel misunderstand.  We rub shoulders every day with “evil” that exists among us.  Those who live with silent, inner turmoil walk around, under the radar, unseen, unnoticed,  until the moment – they break.  Anger unleashed.  Vicious.  Spiteful.  Hateful.  They seek only victims who will sadly pay for the rage they feel inside.  They seek to have a voice through the violence they create.

It seems so cruel.  So unnecessary.  We wonder why God doesn’t stop it all.  Where is He in the midst of the craziness?  Of the pain?

Many people walk in daily fear.  Fear for our children.  Fear of violence.  Fear of abuse.  Fear of nuclear attack.  Fear of war.  Fear of terrorists.  Fear of assault.  It seems that no matter where we live, random violence still lives there too.  Being a believer doesn’t automatically remove us from pain or conflict in this life – but the truth is this – no matter what happens in the world around us, God IS still there.  He is in the midst of us.  He is in the middle of the pain.  He will never leave us without defense.  I am again reminded in all that we face in this life – we do not have to walk in a spirit of fear, but instead, with a deep awareness that we live in a real world where real evil does exist – yet in the end, it will NOT win.

Words that bring hope in this crazy world:

“Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.” Is. 41:10 Message  – He holds us in His hands.

“Jesus wept.”  John 11:35 – He knows our pain.

“Peace I leave with you.  My peace I give to you.  I do not give peace to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.”  John 14:27  – He gives us peace.

“He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” Ps. 91:11 – He guards our way.

“In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  John 16:33 – He is BIGGER.

“No one can hide where I cannot see them.  Do you not know that I am everywhere in heaven and on earth?”  Jeremiah 23:24 – Noone can run from God.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”  2 Timothy 1:7 – He equips us with all that we need.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”  Joshua 1:9 – He is with us – always.

“And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.  We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.”  Hebrews 12:1-2 – He is our Champion.

Joining many of you in praying for peace and comfort over those who deeply grieve.

Hug your kids today.  Tell your family how much you love them.  Thank God that He’s given you the gift of another day.  And maybe we might do a little something more – just to take an active stand against the forces of fear and violence that would seek to attack our freedom and what we love most in this life.  Maybe it’s something you do every day – or maybe you haven’t done this in years.  Dig out your running shoes.  Run.

So today, in honor of these dear families who have suffered such great loss – I run.

And, will not stop.

Press on my friends.

Finish the race.

We are never alone.

He.is.with.us.