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Introduction
Looking for a workout to stretch, build stamina and strength but tired of going it alone?
Running partners is a unique opportunity to join another person and run the road of discipleship. What does that mean? Just like having a running partner, you will join with someone else to strengthen and grow. But instead of running the roads of Seattle, we are inviting you to run the road of discipleship.
This simply means that we have created some “tracks” (or “courses” for you cross country types) that are designed to help you in growing deeper with Jesus and one another. There are a few tracks to choose from, and after choosing your track, you will get a partner and run the track together. Because you are a “partner” you will have someone to encouraged and be encouraged by, someone to help you on those dark days when you just want to give up!
Historically, believers have practiced spiritual disciplines together during the season of Lent. Lent is a time that marks the 40 days before Easter (excluding Sundays) when believers probe the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice. Though the season of Lent is not essential to the Christian life, it is an incredible gift. We are invited to explore, question, and learn. Often, the gift of practicing Lent is that we experience the reality of Easter in new ways.
What if I don’t have a partner?
You are in good company! One of the best parts of having a running partner is that you will get to know someone new. We will assign partners based on the track lists. Once you sign up for your track, you will receive a partner and then you can plan your running times together.
What if I want to pick my own partner?
Great! You know who you run well with! Go for it!
How should I decided what track to take?
Most importantly, the tracks should be fun and interesting to you. When you run, you try to choose a place where you enjoy the scenery AND you attain your goals. This is much the same. Pick a track that perks your interest and that feels like an area where God is inviting you to explore and grow.
Go!
Each track has a weekly “Run” for you to take. Just print it out and take it with you (or do it off a laptop). There is also a brief description of the track and some recommended reading, media and activities you may want to consider.
The Externally Focused Track
Becoming Christ’s Body to the World.
 Download Externally Focused Track
Jesus never called the world to go to church but the church to go to the world. We are called to be people of blessing and hope. A huge calling but we don’t do it alone or unequipped. This track strengthtens our ability to be partners with God and to be more aware of the spiritual gifts he gives for the work to which he calls us.
The Internally Alive Track:
Loving One Another Authentically in the World
Download Internally Alive Track
Are you fascinated by human relationships? Does the idea of Christian community grab you? This challenging track will explore what the Bible teaches us about God’s vision for human relationships. It will also encourage you to practice this radical way of living by helping someone clean their house (!) and doing grocery shopping together. Here is a hands on way of learning to truly love those who are different from us.
The Eternally Connected Track
Nourishment from Jesus for the World
Download Eternally Connected Track
Here is a track that leads down some of the more “traditional” Lenten practices. You will have the opportunity to explore fasting, Scriptural meditation, and prayer. But you will do these things as a partner, and therefore constantly reflect on how these disciplines impact relationships with others and the world. There are some Lenten worship services at UPC that are offered as well.
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