“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” Psalm 139:14 ESV
I’ve been writing about running quite a bit, so I thought I’d give a little backstory about why I run.
Because I wasn’t always a runner. I was the kids who spent her days reading and playing the piano, both of which can be done while sitting down. I started walking in my neighborhood during high school (as a way to get out of the house for a senior who was ready to gooooo). I continued walking in college, and after-dinner beach walks with my roommate are among my fondest college memories. Walking turned into running, and I found that I liked it.
So why do I run?
Because I can, and I like it (A doctor once asked me if I actually liked running while examining my over-worked foot. Turns out I just needed to train better before going after long, steep hills).
And it’s my time alone with God, serving as an extension of my morning quiet time with my Bible, journal, and coffee. I don’t check emails, I don’t answer calls, I just put on gospel music and run, thinking and praying as I go. Don’t get me wrong, I do have a running playlist ranging from Beyonce to Major Lazer, but most mornings I find myself in need of music that focuses me and prepares me for the day ahead.
And it’s my chance to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the seasons and the cool morning air (I don’t run in the afternoon. I’ve tried a few times and it never went well. I need my burst of morning pre-work energy).
And it keeps me healthy. God gave me this body, and I want to take care of it. My heart pumps, my muscles strengthen, and my breathing improves: all helpful for when I’m on my feet all day singing.
What is something you already enjoy doing that you can use as a time of worship? Or, what is something you’d like to start doing?
“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” Psalm 139:14 ESV
