October 2019 I ran my first half marathon, fundraising for our work in the North West. I was hoping to run this marathon in 2020, but due to the pandemic it’s taken me to additional years (during which I’ve not done more than 4 runs total). And while I certainly hope to double my kilometres or miles this time - a distance I have never run, let's pray for a double blessing on the NW groups.

It would be easy to say, let's pray for double the amount of leaders and groups, but really that isn't the heart. Let's pray for: 

A double amount of perseverance in each group. 

A double amount of unity and vision for young people across the North West of England. 

A double amount of faithfulness and obedience in leaders.

A double amount of the Holy Spirit on the young people.

So often I have heard people say, "Ministry is a marathon, not a sprint." And yet while I am only embarking on this real life journey. I am learning that these things are key: Preparation, training, perseverance, nutrition during the week, but also while running. And how true are these for life with Jesus. Let's invest in that relationship, let's train to be with him, to take sabbath, to feed not just our bodies, but our souls and let's invite young people into what God is teaching us, while also learning from them.