Life Lessons from a Marathon Runner

One of my closest friends in Africa, Keri Dodge set a goal for 2011: to run a marathon!

Being the supportive friend that I am, I also set a goal to cheer her on... from the sidelines... with snacks and small children! (Heaven looks a little different to each of us.)

Marathon running is tough work!

Keri is far into her training now and is creatively planning safe ways to do her long runs on the weekend. She's up to over 16 miles now! Lifa and I have become her marathon roadies and are happy to cheer her on as she goes up and down the mountains of South Africa, arranging running partners and water stands throughout Mbonisweni.

Last weekend, Keri got us all set up, and Lifa and I brought the party to GoGo's house. GoGo's yard was a water station for Keri and our friend NhlaNhla, a dance party, and a popcorn and juice party!

She's doing it the right way.
She cannot safely train for a marathon alone in South Africa.

So, she's making it a family affair... even though it takes so much more time, money and communicating. 
She's trusting people to come into an important part of her story and her dreams. 
One kilometer at a time, she's getting stronger and believing in reaching her goal.

As her head cheerleader with her #1 fan in tote, God is teaching me about marathons and endurance through Keri.

Lifa cheering Keri on!

First things first, I've realized I will NEVER run a marathon. But, DANG, Go Keri Go!

There's two weeks left before I take Lifa back to his father's house. God is whispering that it's not about a sprint... it's a marathon. This back-and-forth from house-to-house feels unnatural, painful and broken. But it's part of a long and beautiful plan and path God is laying for our story. Our family. 

Mornings like this morning - pancakes, snuggle parties, and praying and worshipping together on the way to school - are like our water stands. I feel His Spirit pouring Living Water and blessing our family. And I'm praying - and asking you to pray - for us. Pray that during this next two weeks together, His Spirit sings to our spirits and puts a seal of family, security and joy on Lifa, his father and myself. 

With hiccups, hang-ups and African-time, this family story is definitely a marathon. I'm in it forever and ever. 

Today and everyday with Lifa, I will cherish each moment as a gift and as a part of His promises. There's not a finish-line or a due-date here. We will continuously run after His Kingdom and always be learning how to seek Him more and more. We are keeping our eyes fixed on His promises and calling His Kingdom down. And we're asking for lots of dance parties, kisses and miracle moments along the way! 

Lifa's got his own blog now. www.lifewithlifa.blogspot.com
This kid's a big deal! His blog is a way to share his story, show him off and keep him connected to friends and family back home. It's a space to testify the Truth and mark the path God is laying, one promise at a time. Thanks for checking it out! We love you!