Grab HIS hand

Last Sunday, I ran my first road race. Just a 5K, 3.2 miles, but for someone who hates running, this was a moment. I finished.

And I plan to run again. [shocked? me too. but I want to run again for THIS]
I was on the last turn of the race when I felt like giving up. The course was rolling, big change from the comfortable treadmill back at the gym. I had my music going, and it was about the time that Chris Tomlin's, "Holy is the Lord," came on-- and for the first time I really heard the opening verse,

We stand and lift up our hands
For the joy of the Lord is our strength
We bow down, worship Him now
How great, how awesome is He

At about the same time, up on my left came an older man with his teenage daughter. He was holding her hand as they ran-- and by her run, you could tell that she tired and like me, ready to stop. They didn't even realize it, but seeing them was exactly the inspiration I needed.

I could see him talking to her, not sure what he said, but I am sure they were words of encouragement. He didn't let her hand go. She kept going.

What a great imagery of how our God takes OUR hand at times. He holds our hand when we get tired and whispers encouraging words. He see's us through to the END of the race. Isaiah 40:29-31.