Intro: Cade in the parking lot saying "Mom, run for your life!"

I. We need strength, enthusiasm, endurance if we are to be "Renewed."

a. 1 Corinthians - Runners run for a "perishable prize;" Christians run to win an imperishable prize.

b. Isaiah - Even the old will not grow weary. Youth may fade, but our willingness to serve God is renewed such that we will soar like eagles.

II. But we can't get lazy, we must EXERCISE our spirits. (Coaching analogy)

a. Refer to "Though I May Speak"

1. Not just in speaking boldly,

2. Not just in giving generously,

3. Not just in studying diligently,

4. Without love, without God - does it make sense?

5. We must have love, have spirit, have joy in our lives.

b. We must be willing to change and improve our game.

1. Tiger Woods - changed his swing at the peak of his game.

III. Building up our spiritual muscles will bring us joy.

a. Never understood the "runner's high - not much of an athlete

b. Not sure I understand spiritual ecstasy, but with practice and patience, I have experienced closeness with God

1. Sometimes balked at that "mountaintop" experience, it cannot be forced, but spiritual openness can catch us in strange ways

2. Hearing back from Altoona that the sessions of ALL the churches in the city are talking together about possibilities warms my heart

3. With individual, or church - doesn't matter - happens here, happens not here - doesn't matter - we have to build a faith community that is a "training ground"

Cade says "Mom, run for your life" and we do, everyday. Strive for the prize that

doesn't wilt or fade. Don't become a pew potato! Exercise your spirit. Let

yourself be carried up on eagles' wings.