Each KINDLE Strand is connected to a Grace-filled Mark. As we invest in the practices of the Strand of Cultivating Health, the Holy Spirit is growing within us the Mark of Well-being. Together, the five practices—Recognize God’s Call, Pursue Wellness, Grow in Wisdom, Optimize Finances, and Stay Connected—create an environment within us where well-being thrives.
Listen to Lisa’s story about her journey to Pursue Wellness.
I am a runner. I don’t look like a runner. I wasn’t always a runner. Years ago, I reached a point of not feeling good about myself physically, spiritually, and emotionally and felt a divine kick to do something.
I started walking. Because I am internally competitive, walking became trotting. Physical, spiritual, and emotional health improved, and the pursuit began. Feeling more internal competition after my first 5k, I started researching marathons and when I was 54, I completed my first (of six) full marathons.
This, to me, is the Cultivating Health practice of Pursue Wellness as a Christ-like servant leader.
To successfully run a marathon, a balance between research (knowledge); training, rest, nutrition (skill); and commitment (attitude) is necessary. It became a circle of health: as learning increased, better skill developed, healthy nutrition improved, and commitment to the lifestyle of a runner intensified, which includes encouraging others to pursue wellness through their own journey. And the circle continues.
1 Corinthians 9:24 says, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.”
I won’t win a marathon, but every time I cross a marathon finish line I am filled with absolute joy. The prize is not for first place. The prize is a healthy lifestyle, feeling better physically, mentally, and emotionally as a child of a loving, Triune God and being able to share that joy with others. Compared with that, everything else — receiving the medal, experiencing the camaraderie of the running community, and the pride of the accomplishment — is secondary.
Lisa Martinson
Director of Christian Education
Trinity Lutheran Church, Northfield, MN
2009 Classic KINDLE Associate