“We will run and not grow weary, for our God will be our strength. . ..” This morning’s Communion hymn resonated with me on so many levels. As I sang the words to “We Will Rise Again,” I was struck by the strength I receive from my faith-filled, ever-resilient running friends, Molly, Maggie, and Teresa.

Maggie, Teresa and I  run on Thursdays at 5:30am, and Molly and I run with our dogs on Wednesdays and Fridays. For longer than a decade, these runs have enlightened me to God’s bountiful beauty and sustained me through tough times. I love learning that one of their kids got a great job or a fabulous opportunity or another degree or an invitation to travel to an exotic place or a chance to have an amazing learning experience. We genuinely radiate excitement when we share in each other’s good news. And when we make mistakes, we listen with love and encouragement. Yesterday, I told Maggie and Teresa that Eileen took two steps on her own, and they literally beamed. They don’t just tolerate listening to these tidbits; they really enjoy them. Maggie, Teresa, and Molly are gifts from God, and they help me recognize that His Light is everywhere. They tell stories of hope and humor, remorse and redemption, and they always endure through faith and love.

As we grow older, there is a temptation to walk instead of run, and I find myself milking out Watson’s pit-stops when I am in the trails with Molly and the dogs. But rest assured, we are not growing weary; we are growing more relaxed and at peace – euphemisms for stiffer and slower. And we chat, laugh, and tell stories as we round corners, side-step puddles and leap over curbs all under the guise that we’re out for exercise.

We know that God is present in the people we encounter, and no matter what happens in life, God is there for us. Sometimes I think God gave me so many great friends because I need more help than most people. I’m okay with that.