Mariners Hospital, in Tavernier FL, sponsored a 5 and 10K walk/run last Saturday to benefit the nurses with ongoing, life-giving education and state-of-the-art equipment. As a nurse, I recognize the importance of keeping up with the many positive advances happening in health care.
The participants of this small community came together to support local health care. Race goers anticipated the life-giving benefits of physical exercise and camaraderie. But so much more health-giving life was realized as relationships happened.
A Grandmother proudly shared with me how she walked the 5K with her son at one elbow and her grandson on the other. I’m sure they got pictures and the recall of this day will bring a smile to this Grandma’s face for many days to come.
Then there was a group of friends who walked in memory of their friend, Jerry Wallace who recently died. Jerry had run many races himself. He also ran the race of life beside many who needed encouragement and the love of God. This race, celebrating life, helped Jerry’s friends to do some necessary grieving by remembering Jerry.
Then there was the woman who experienced some difficult challenges the day before and had come to the race rather gloomy. But on this sunny with welcome cooler temperatures day, she delightedly learned she took third place in her age division.
This woman sensed her wise heavenly Father saw her struggles and was encouraging her. The difficult challenges would eventually be celebrated in life-filled overcoming.
Healthy communities bring life and health when people come together demonstrating the example of the giver of Life, Jesus. It’s helpful to grieve with a group of friends. Families who have fun together despite differences encourage respect. The courage to join in the race of life, even with a heavy heart, often brings answers for breakthrough.
Hold tightly to the word of life, so that when Christ returns, I will be proud that I did not lose the race and that my work was not useless. But even if my life is to be poured out like a drink offering to complete the sacrifice of your faithful service (that is, if I am to die for you), I will rejoice, and I want to share my joy with all of you. (NLT: Philippians 2: 16 – 17)