This summer I'm challenging myself to train and compete in the Vineman Half Ironman in Sonoma County California.  The race is a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and a 13.1 mile run.  As I'm training for this, I find myself leaning on my friends and family for support and encouragement.  I wanted to find a way to be able to give back and not just be a sponge.

This lead me to think about other journeys and training that we all go through in life - and most importantly that race that we run as Christians.

Hebrews 12:1-3:  Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Please help me raise money for the Michigan Lutheran Seminary Foundation to help young Christian men and woman begin their training program to be our future pastors, teachers and lay people.  MLS is close to my heart - I'm a 1993 graduate.  I treasure the education I received there and want others to have the same opportunities that I did.

Thank you!