The First Mile

The First Mile

Over the past year I have fallen in love with running again, and by the grace of God my knees have graciously cooperated with my addiction.  Last Saturday I ran 14 miles; the longest I’ve run in over 8 years.  The amazing part of that is I felt I could have gone further – and I will, in the weeks to come.  This Saturday is an “easy” 6 miler but next weekend includes a 16 miler (followed by an 18 and a 20 in the following two weeks). 

But last week the 14^th mile wasn’t the toughest one – it was the first!  The first mile is often one of the hardest. 

Why?

During the first mile my body has many complaints.  “Why are we doing this, it’s cold and windy”  “I’m tired, it’s only 5:30AM”, “I’d rather be_________” , “Can we go home now?”  I often have to fight through that first mile as my body becomes adjusted (and succumbs)  to its task.  The temptation to quit in those first 10 minutes can be pretty strong.  In the winter I often dress as if it would be 20 – 25 degrees warmer to adjust for the exercise warm-up.  By mile 2 or 3 I usually feel plenty warm (if not too warm).  But that first mile is cold.  Try being outside on a 30 degree day in shorts and a long sleeve t-shirt.  Brrr!  But once the body is warmed up and over the initial complaints we are cruising – and yes, even a 14 mile run can be enjoyable (we’ll talk about 16 or miles at a later time).  But I’ve been through enough first miles to know that subsequent miles get better.

So the question is – what about those “other” first miles in our lives.  Those things God calls us to do that we know will be exciting and meaningful, but very uncomfortable at first.   How many times have I called it quits in the first mile because I felt inadequate, uncomfortable, or numerous other excuses.  Maybe I didn’t even get to the starting line to avoid the first mile blues.  I need to consider again those folks in Hebrews 12:1 who have already gone ahead of me and our ready to cheer me on.  And to fix once again my focus on Christ.  All the time I can remember the promise of Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

How about you?

Run on!