The Kiserian race was a day that fueled us with much joy and great strength as we were encompassed by hundreds of elite trained athletes who all pressed on toward the same goal ahead- a diligence that was demonstrated thru each athlete's stride. From the initial view of the race course, the roads were paved with consistent difficulties as upward hills would fuel the runner's pace. Japheth, one of our guys on our discipleship team, beautifully stated prior to the race, "We are all here, equal, and its up to each of us if we run this race, for the goal set ahead." His words spoke loudly as we envisioned the choices we each make to press on toward our upward call in Christ. With this in mind, the race took on a new meaning in our view.
We were blessed to have a view, front and center, as we participated in riding in the lead car. Thus, allowing us to witness the strides, the diligence, the perseverance of the race's constant journey. Differing levels of athletes chose to embrace the upward rigors of the race. Riding in front of the runners, we witnessed the crowd participation cheering all athletes across the finish line- all ages {young children all the way to the older men/women}, all trained { those heavier proportioned, thinner framed, stronger built}, all dressed {bare foot, in dresses, in best gear}. Yet all equal...All showed up and finished the race that was set out before them.
Running is such a spiritually impacting sport as one gains a full portrait of a journey lived in the utmost of diligence and of strength. One can see the push needed within different parts of the course and the crowd that fuels their strides. In this course called life, we individually (all equal) choose to press on toward the goal. Yet, we have our brothers/sisters (the crowd) that is ever supporting us to finish out each part in great strength. Japheth came running around the corner with such a determined stance and after he finished strongly, he proudly stated, "I accomplished my goal."
Although Kimosop did not take 1st position, in a forceful sprint to the finish, the crowd powerfully cheered him to the finish line. He ran a very well race and afterwards, his body felt stronger than ever. In a spiritual sense, a beautiful depiction of our upward call to Christ as we persevere to the prize set before us.
Update: Irene Limika did not secure a position in the winner's podium, but her placement is within the top 20 women in the world. Many opportunities to continue running in prestige races await her.
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