Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us. — Hebrews 12:1
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Several times per week, I rise early for a morning run. What with the fall setting in, it is darker and darker when I start out on my route. On a recent run, the street lights were still the primary source of light when I went outside. As I made my way through my immediate neighborhood, I felt as though I was all alone – the only one out at that hour, getting some morning exercise. When I turned onto Main Highway, however, I was amazed — dozens upon dozens of runners were on the path, training together with a running group. Suddenly, I was filled with a feeling of camaraderie with fellow joggers; reassured there were others doing the same thing I was, and that I was part of a group. The sun continued to rise, and it was turning into a lovely morning. There are times in our lives when we can feel as though we are the only ones that have experienced what we are going through. The future seems dark, and no one seems to be around to walk with us and guide us. When we join a community of faith, however, we are reminded, that we are not alone.
There, we learn of God’s promise never to abandon us; further, we discover there are others who care about us, and want to walk with us. As the verse from the New Testament book of Hebrews proclaims, we can be strengthened by a great cloud of witnesses — brothers and sisters in faith — that want to run the race of life with us. Join with a faith community and experience the joy it brings!
Rev. Kathryn Carroll is Pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church, 11295 SW 57 Ave. (Red Road). Worship services are Sunday at 8:15 a.m. and 10 a.m., with children’s Sunday school also at 10 a.m.
For more information, go to www.ctkmiami.org
