“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Hebrews 12:1-2
Last October, my husband Brian and I completed a half-marathon run as a part of the virtual OKC Memorial Run. This race honors the 168 lives that were lost in the bombing, as well as the countless others affected. We selected our 13.1-mile route to finish at the OKC memorial, but to start at Moore High School, where Brian is the cross country and track coach. We chose this starting location because of the tragedy in February 2020 where 3 precious lives were lost. We chose to run for all of those who were affected by these two specific events. These 3 Moore athletes were truly amazing individuals. Rachel, Yuridia, and Kolby continue to leave an impact and a legacy on their community. But the challenge and the grief for the families, teammates, classmates, and mentors for losing these loved ones has been considerable. There have been many beautiful moments of remembrance and healing, but this day will mark a moment that will not be forgotten without remembering the pain of loss. We are now at the first anniversary of this traumatic day and the challenging days that followed. I’ve observed and learned firsthand about the journey of grief over this last year.
There are some parallels about the journey of grief that I reflected on during those 2+ hours when we were running the half-marathon last October. Brian and I had both been running pretty consistently over the last several months leading up to this run. And although both of us have a history of competing in many races, we had not particularly trained for a half-marathon. The race on this day was going to be an experience we could share together, but was more about challenging ourselves to actually complete the distance and run the race with a purpose. The most important thing we did was to keep going and to finish! It was a good run, but it wasn’t easy, and it wasn’t without fatigue and soreness.
I think when we face challenges in our life, especially tragedies, we’re not fully ready either. We don’t necessarily train to face really hard situations. But the work you have done, plus your mindset, combined with the support of others can help you get through challenging experiences too. And as we turn to God, we realize the incredible ways He continually helps us. It doesn’t mean that it will be easy or without pain, but you can make it. There may be some harder and slower moments. There may be times when you have questions or doubts. But be encouraged that you can do it and lean on God for comfort, guidance, strength, and grace.
When we started our run that morning, it was very foggy and hard to see much more than a few hundred yards ahead of us. We could only focus on the steps right in front of us. Sometimes that’s all we can do in our deepest moments of grief – just focus on the steps right in front of us. But throughout the run, the fog lifted, and the sun peeked through the clouds and, by the end, there was beautiful sunshine. This happens as we face grief too. We CAN find hope and there IS promise of light to come. While this year has been full of challenges in many different ways for many different people, I have been inspired by the strength and faith of so many who continue to work through their loss and trauma and share their encouragement and support of others. I am reminded of God’s continual presence and that God is at work in all times, through our hard times and our better times. So, I encourage you in whatever you are facing to find your hope in Christ, keep going, and finish the race!
– Amy Givens, Director of Youth Ministry
