Running Intervals

Preparing for a big race many runners will have weekly interval training where they will run for a very brief time frame at a sprint like pace and then go back to an easier one. They will repeat these intervals multiple times for the duration of their run.  Intervals are not meant to be easy. They are meant to push and challenge us to be better and to work harder. However, this hard work is not in vain; intervals help gain an overall faster pace and endurance for long runs that come.

Our time in Lent is an interval where we can increase our endurance for the rest of the liturgical year. During Lent we increase our prayer, alms giving, and fasting to grow closer to Christ. It is meant to challenge us to become better and holier versions of ourselves. Everyone's Lent looks and feels a bit different depending upon how previous prayer, alms giving, and fasting have been in a person's life. Just like with running, if you have never run more than a block, you probably will not be doing intervals that would be running a mile at a sprint pace. You would easily give up and never try again. On the flip side, if you are a regular marathon runner doing a block interval training run would be too easy. Your boredom of doing something too easy would tell you that this is pointless and not worth your time.

You and God can have those conversations through prayer on what it is that would be the right challenge for you. Ask God what would push you to a greater endurance for the long run with Him. I do pray that you use this beautiful Lenten season to grow closer to Christ that will not only last till Easter, but truly sustain you as you continue the run the rest of your life. I pray that your Lenten resolutions are not too hard that you become discouraged but not too easy that you find yourself bored just after this first week.

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Father in Heaven,

Thank you for this interval of Lent to be challenged and grow closer to you! I ask that you help me discern and follow through during this season of Lent to pray, give alms, and fast in a way that will give me greater endurance rather than discouragement or boredom. I desire to run this life long race with you Lord, give me what I need to do this well!

Amen. 

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth