The Runner's Horizon

This, now growing, series on 'The Runner' has been yielding some interesting reactions from readers. On FaceBook I've read comments ranging from; 'I'm lacing up my running shoes', to 'I'm ready to join the marathon', all in response to this series.

I admire sprinters in track and field events. With a tremendous blast of speed they're out of the starting block and down the track in a matter of seconds. But sprinters are not runners. While they too have a horizon, it is within eye sight and their goal quickly reached. Sprinters train to be sprinters - they do not train to be runners.

Those who run in marathons, or cross country have my respect as well. These runners do not do well in the sprint - they did not train for the blast of great speed and quick finish. They train more in the endurance of running - how to stay in it to the end. But as is for sprinters, marathon racers have a finish line, it is simply reached a bit later than the sprinter reaches hers.

To be the kind of Runner I've been writing about - Philip kind of Runners - is dependent on two specific functions; horizon and training to the horizon. Philip Runners have already seen what cannot be seen and by default pursue a different horizon than most.

Running in the Biblical context is not about finishing and it’s certainly not about competing with other runners – but it is about winning. At the end of his days, after 20 years of not hearing about Philip in the book of Acts we find him in his place of service now with four daughters all of whom were like their father - Runners. Philip ran with endurance. He possessed the ability to see and understand what he saw for his generation and passed his competency along to the next generation - he won!

For those of you who would be Runners of your generation, take note; you must train in such a way that focuses upon the horizon only. You must abandon the notions of competition and finish line. Neither exist.

The Philip Project is based upon a very certain but very unseen horizon.

Here's today's question; 'Are you ready to have a Runner's Horizon?'

Next? 'The Runner's Attitude'

Dan
A Runner